Cigar Aging: The Secret to Developing Richer Flavors

One of the greatest joys of cigar smoking is the development of richer, more complex flavors over time. Aging cigars allows the oils and flavors to mature, producing a smoother and more refined smoking experience.

What Happens During Aging?

When cigars age, they go through a natural transformation. The tobacco leaves continue to evolve, and the harshness that comes with a freshly rolled cigar slowly dissipates. The flavor profile of a cigar becomes more balanced, with nuanced flavors developing that weren’t present when the cigar was first rolled.

• Flavors Develop: Cigars that are aged for a longer time tend to develop deeper flavors, such as earthy, woody, or spicy notes. Aging can also help mellow out the strength of a cigar, making it more approachable.
• Even Burn: Aged cigars often burn more evenly, which makes the experience much more enjoyable. As the cigar matures, the blend of tobaccos becomes more uniform, resulting in a better draw.

How Long Should You Age Your Cigars?

Not all cigars benefit from aging, but many do. Generally speaking, high-quality cigars that are constructed well and made from premium tobacco tend to improve with age.

• Short-Term Aging (1-3 Years): Cigars such as Romeo y Julieta and Montecristo age best within 1-3 years. These cigars have a lighter profile and become more balanced and smoother as they mature.
• Long-Term Aging (5+ Years): Full-bodied cigars like Padron 1926 or Arturo Fuente OpusX can benefit from aging for 5 years or more. Aging these cigars allows their complexity and strength to mellow into a more refined smoke.

Pro Tip: Always store cigars in their original packaging when aging them to prevent them from absorbing external odors. If you plan on aging a large quantity of cigars, consider rotating the cigars occasionally to ensure they age evenly.