What is happening while a cigar is ageing?

I pretty much understand the events that cause whiskey to age, but whats happening to the cigars?

When properly stored the tobaccos in the cigar will give off some ammonia, which is a byproduct of fermentation.

The oils in the tobacco leaves will blend giving the cigar a richer flavor.

Some of the moisture will evaporate (which is usually a good thing) and the cigar will even out in consistency of burn.

There are usually several kinds of tobacco used in a premium cigar. These tobaccos need time to mellow. Although cigar manufacturers often age the tobacco and even age the finished cigars, they still often benifit from aging.

Many cigars, especially Cubans, will go through a "SICK PERIOD" when they just do not taste good at all. This is usually a period from 3-6 months after they are rolled and lasts a year or so.

Cigars will feel better (to the touch) and smoke better if left in proper storage for 3 years or more.

When you purchase a cigar from your local tobacconist, if it has been properly kept in the stores humidor at 70/70, it will stabilize if left in your home humidor for a few weeks and smoke better if left at LESS than 70% RH (usually 65-67%).

Try it and see for yourself.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Docbarry,

Great summary, Doc. Now, please explain how we're supposed to keep our hands off that new box of cigars for three years.

Would "turning over" the cigars on a regular bases help? How about letting the temperature
vary. Warm days, and cool nights. These are used on whiskey.

Nixdad: I place boxes of cigars in the bottom of my cabinet humidor way in the back and place other boxes on top of them. When I finally look in they are usually 2-3 years old.

Bones: Try to keep your cigars at an even temperature as cooling and warming can cause unnecessary expansion and contraction and might adversly effect the binder and wrapper.

Remember, as temperature changes so does relative humidity.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Docbarry,