Aging cigars is like chasing a leprachaun to the end of the rainbow. The only thing is we don’t know if it will be worth it when we’re finished. Letting cigars age takes an extreme amount of patience. When I set out to age cigars I buy a whole box and age 3 to 4 cigars out of the box and I smoke the rest.
The Science
- Fermentation
- Mellowing of the flavor notes
- Ammonia Dissipates
So, what’s going on scientifically? Your cigars are undergoing chemical changes when you let them age, much like teenage boys you never know what the end product is going to be. Over time, cigars undergo fermentation, mellowing the harsher notes and bringing out softer, more refined flavors.
Ammonia dissipates, leaving behind a smoother, more balanced smoke. This process is where inexpensive or sharp-tasting cigars can transform into something quite exceptional.
Fresh or Seasoned?
You know how fresh cigars might hit your palette with robust, sometimes overpowering flavors? Aging a cigar for the right amount of time can mellow out those flavor notes for sure. It’s smoother, more balanced, often compared to a well-aged wine. A lot of connoisseurs say that choosing to age a cigar is like playing roullete at a casino. You can win and lose even at the same time.
Technique
Let’s pause for a moment to consider technique. Just like with food or drink, different cultures and communities have their preferred aging methods. Be it the traditional cedar cabinetry or modern innovations like climate-controlled units, each method can slightly tweak the resulting flavor profile. Getting those flavors right often takes a blend of patience, practice, and a touch of artistry.
What Does Aging Cigars Do?
What is going on when you age your cigars. Aging cigars can significantly elevate the experience, turning a casual smoke into a lifetime memory. Time is your best friend turning a cheap smoke into something fancy.
When cigars age properly, the result is a blend that operates like watching a hair band in the 80s. The individual notes—be it earthy, nutty, or spicy—play nicely together, no one component overpowering the others. This process enhances the olfactory and taste experience, providing seasoned enthusiasts with the nuanced smoke they’re always chasing.
But not all cigars age well, just like not all wines improve over time. The success of aging often hinges on various factors like the initial blend of the cigar, the storage conditions, and even the smoker’s personal preference. That’s why documenting the aging journey is a game-changer, helping smokers pinpoint how age complements their individual taste profiles.
There’s a cool connection between aged cigars and aged whiskies or wines. Like a bottle of fine wine, a cigar benefits from a little rest, allowing them both to mature gracefully. But be cautious—aging won’t always turn an average product into a masterpiece. It can be likened to hitting the pause button for the cigar to regroup, to find itself, so to speak.
The cigar world is full of tales, and unfortunately, one myth that hangs around is that older always means better. Not true! While age can often heighten enjoyment, it doesn’t universally apply to every cigar or every palate. Some flavors might actually fade or lose complexity over time if left too long, making the art of aging a blend of patience, experimentation, and a pinch of good judgment.
How Long Should I Age Cigars?
Aging cigars when it comes to length of time can be tricky. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where the cigar’s characteristics have melded perfectly. But how long exactly should you wait? Well, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It often depends on the type of cigar, the wrapper, and personal taste preferences.
Mild Cigars
Let’s break it down. As a general guide: mild cigars might reach peak performance quicker, perhaps within 2 to 5 years.
Medium-Bodied Cigars
Medium-bodied cigars can take a bit longer, often around 5 to 7 years, to truly shine. For fuller-bodied smokes, you’re looking at possibly a decade for maximum potential. It’s a journey, not a race, and patience tends to be rewarded.
Be a Scientist
While there’s a recommended duration, it’s crucial to remember that aging isn’t just about following a timeline. It’s about tasting along the way, observing how the profile evolves over time. If you find that perfect moment when the flavors sing, don’t hesitate to indulge.
Don’t Wait Too Long
But hey, here’s a word of caution: there’s a fine line between aging cigars and letting them wither away. Over-aging can lead to diminishing returns with muted flavors. You don’t want to sit on a prized collection only to find it’s lost its spark. So, actively engage with your stash, try them periodically, and keep those notes handy.
Tips and Tricks
Crafting the perfect aging environment for your cigars is like setting up a comfy home where they can thrive. Humidity and temperature are your best friends here. Aim for a stable environment with humidity around 65-70% and temperature close to 70°F. Too dry and your cigars become brittle; too wet and they might start to mold.
Think of your humidor as not just a storage box, but as a caretaker of your precious collection. Regular maintenance is key. Check the seals and monitor those hygrometers because, let’s face it, a neglected humidor doesn’t do justice to your carefully chosen cigars.
Keep A Journal
Documenting your aging journey is something every serious enthusiast should consider. Whether it’s jotting down notes on flavor changes or taking photos of different stages, these records can help you pinpoint what worked and what didn’t. You’ll be able to relive those past experiences and refine your aging skills.
Conclusion
In the end, the goal is to create a smoking experience that’s satisfying and uniquely yours. With some know-how and a dash of patience, your well-aged cigars can go from being a simple hobby to a real connoisseur’s delight.