Expert: James Yee - 2/18/2011

Question
Hello James.Hope all is well.As mentioned in a previous e-mail,I just recently purchased the Havana foot locker humidor being a 400-500 count humi.I did so because my family and I are soon planing a trip to Cuba,and I want to take advantage of the cheaper prices compared to here in Canada.I'm planing to bring approximately 300+ cigars back.My first question is,should I definetly be looking at something such as the cigar oasis to store and age all these sticks in the large humidor or would crystals or beads be as adequate?I've read alot of reviews on the cigar oasis series,and I seem to be getting alot of mixed reviews in terms of dependability and quality issues.Ther cigars I plan on bringing back are,Cohiba Siglo V1(being my favorite)and the Montecristo Edmundo,and the Monte Petit Edmundo.The Cohiba I've been smoking for years,but not to familiar of these two Montecristo lines.What you professial take on these issues?Thanks in advance for any advice you can offer James.Take care.

Answer
Hi Bill,

For humidors 350-count or larger, I would suggest using an electronic humidifier.  It's possible to use beads for humidors of this size but I find electronic humidifiers are much better because of their large water reservoir and humidity shut-off sensor.  These two features will allow your humidifer to perform longer than humidity beads.  Electronic humidifiers will also allow you to custom set your desired humidity level which is great should you want to adjust the humidity for whatever reason.  Beads are always great (I use them in my small desktop humidors) but an electronic humidifier is even more user-friendly and perfect for large humidors.  With large humidors, the last thing you'll want is to constantly recharge a passive humidifier such as beads or crystals.  An electronic humidifier is a bit more money but will definitely make your life so much easier.

I use Cigar Oasis and have not had any problems with mine.  If you're concerned about quality and reliability with Cigar Oasis, there are other electronic humidifiers in the market.  I also use Hydra (LG model) which is another excellent brand.

I hope this helps!  As always, if you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask.

Have a good weekend!

James.