Cigar Aging:

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.