Expert: James Yee - 10/19/2008

Question
Hi James, I recently bought some Trinidad Reyes I bought 5 packs of 5 instead of a box of 25 and saved some money that way. Is there any difference in the ones that come in the box and the ones that come in the paper pack? Also if they are left in the paper box in a humidor will they smoke as well or age as well as they would out of the box?Another question I have is, what is your take on leaving cigars in the celephane, Aging ,Mixing flavors, or anthing else you can let me know about it . Thanks for your time again James.

Answer
Hi Grant,

There is no difference in the cigars but the cigar packaging can vary.  Some of these cigars for example, may be packaged in cigar tubes or individual cardboard sleeves and then placed in the boxes while the regular dress box or cabinet versions may not have these features.  Aside from the packaging, the cigars are the same.

Leaving the cigars in the cardboard boxes will also not affect the way the cigar ages or tastes; especially if the cigars are intended for long-term aging.  These boxes are not airtight so it's perfectly safe to keep these cardboard boxes in your humidor.

In regards to leaving the cigars in their original cellophane/plastic wrappers, I think it's a good idea.  The cellophane provides an extra bit of protection for your cigars and protects them from mold, dirt and bugs.  These plastic wrappers (and cigar tubes) are also not airtight so it's perfectly safe to keep your cigars in them.  (Some plastic wrappers are even perforated to help the humidity flow.)  A cigar in a plastic wrapper is also strong enough for you to slip in your pocket and not worry about the cigar being crushed or damaged.

If however, you keep your cigars in their original cigar tubes and plastic wrappers and you feel they are a bit dry, simply loosen the cigar tube cap and/or untuck the opened end of the plastic wrapper and this will improve the aeration flow.

Hopes this answers your questions. If you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask and I will be happy to help.

Regards,
James