Expert: Bill Finck Jr. - 6/28/2008

Question
I have a cabinet type humidor that I just finished seasoning, and I figured out
tonight that this humidor was lined with aromatic cedar. This cedar is now
releasing an overpowering cedar smell. Is there anything that I can do to reduce
the strength of this smell?

Answer
John,

Cigar humidors are typically built with Spanish cedar, which is not the very aromatic type used to make chests or storage closets. I'd be surprised if your humidor is built with any type other than Spanish cedar, but if it is then you I don't know what to tell you because that aroma will never tone down and is too strong for cigar storage.

If it is actually lined with Spanish cedar (clear, light color, almost knot-free) then that aroma is normal. It will definitely get stronger when it is wet, and it will over time lose some of its aroma. Spanish cedar helps repel tobacco bugs and it is generally accepted that the aroma enhances a cigars aroma, so don't be concerned that it will damage your cigars in any way.

Bill