How Long Do Cigars Last in a Plastic Wrapper? The Truth About Proper Cigar Storage
The question of how long cigars last in a plastic wrapper is a crucial one for any aficionado. While seemingly a simple question, the answer hinges on several factors beyond just the plastic itself. Let's delve into the complexities of cigar storage and longevity.
The Short Answer: Cigars shouldn't be stored long-term in plastic wrappers. While they might survive for a short period (a few weeks at most), plastic doesn't allow for proper humidity and airflow, leading to a deterioration in quality.
Why Plastic is a Cigar's Worst Enemy
Plastic wrappers create an airtight seal, trapping moisture and preventing the cigar from "breathing." This leads to several detrimental effects:
- Mold and Mildew: The trapped moisture creates the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew, rendering your cigars unsmokable.
- Burn Issues: A cigar stored improperly will likely burn unevenly or have a harsh, unpleasant taste.
- Flavor Degradation: The lack of proper airflow and humidity control leads to a loss of the delicate nuances of the cigar's flavor profile. The tobacco can dry out excessively or become overly humid, both negatively impacting the smoking experience.
- Accelerated Aging (in a bad way): While aging is desirable for some cigars, the uncontrolled environment within plastic leads to premature and undesirable aging, resulting in a harsh and unpleasant smoke.
How Long Can They Last? A Qualified Answer
While we strongly advise against long-term storage, a cigar in a plastic wrapper might survive for a couple of weeks, especially if it's been recently manufactured and is in good condition. However, even this short timeframe carries risks. The longer a cigar remains in plastic, the greater the risk of damage.
What About the Cellophane Wrapper?
Many cigars come wrapped in cellophane. This is not the same as plastic. Cellophane is permeable to some degree, allowing for a little airflow. However, it's still not ideal for long-term storage. The cellophane should be removed after purchase and the cigars stored appropriately.
Proper Cigar Storage: The Key to Longevity
To ensure your cigars remain in peak condition, you need to provide an environment with consistent humidity and airflow. This typically involves:
- Humidor: A humidor is the best option for long-term cigar storage. It maintains ideal humidity levels (around 70%) and provides ventilation.
- Humidor Accessories: Invest in a good hygrometer to monitor humidity levels and a humidifier to maintain them.
- Cedar: Cedar is known for its natural ability to absorb and release moisture, making it an excellent material for humidors and cigar storage.
How Long Do Cigars Last Properly Stored?
With proper storage in a humidor, a high-quality cigar can last for many years, even decades, without significant degradation in quality. However, the optimal aging time varies depending on the cigar's blend and construction.
What if My Cigars are Already in Plastic?
If your cigars are already in plastic, remove them immediately. Assess their condition. If they appear moldy or damaged, discard them. If they seem okay, transfer them to a humidor as soon as possible.
In summary, keeping cigars in plastic wrappers for any significant length of time is ill-advised. Proper storage in a humidor is crucial for maintaining the quality and longevity of your prized cigars.
