Expert: Bill Finck Jr. - 1/5/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi,

 I've been enjoying cigars for a few years now and have a question about cigars that come in tubes.  I ordered some that come in glass and some in crystal tubes.  My question regards humidification, will they be ok left in sealed glass tubes or should I open them up for long term storage?  It seems they won't be exposed to the humidity if they're sealed unless the cap can breathe or something.  I was also wondering if there is a maximum amount of time a cigar can stay fresh.  If I keep the humidty at acceptable levels can a cigar literally stay fresh indefinately?  I would love to keep some for a long time to see how they mellow and age for my retirement!

Thanks so Much!

Pat

ANSWER: Pat,

Cigars will stay fresh for a while if sealed in tubes, but eventually they will begin to dry out. i have not seen a cigar tube that is 100% airtight. You should be ok for 30 days or so, after that you will start to see some drying of the cigars.

Cigar can be stored indefinitely if kept at the proper temperature and humidity. i have cigars that are 25 years old and are in great smoking condition. I'll like you idea of saving some special ones for your retirement...

Bill

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Bill,

 I guess I'll take off the caps on the tubed cigars.  I'll keep them in the bottom of the humidor till their ready to be smoked, then recap cap them to take with.
 Also, I'm going to build a cabinet humidor very soon, I want more room to take advantage of box sales.  I know about the use of Spanish Cedar but want to save some cash on materials.  I'm a big fan of poplar wood, in my opinion it's a very attractive semi-hard wood.  OK now the question...Do you think it will be ok if I line only the right and left side with the Spanish Cedar and keep the top, bottom, back, and door the raw poplar?  I will of course sand it well but not finish the pop wood.

Thanks Again,

Pat

Answer
Pat,

This is a little out of my expertise, but as long as the wood you are using doesn't have any odor and you have a good humidifier you should be fine. Spanish cedar is used because it smells good and is complimentary to cigars, and it absorbs water and help control humidity. I think you'll be fine using poplar.

Bill