Over our 16+ years of trading, we’ve received countless questions from customers about how to store, cut, and enjoy cigars properly. Here, we’ve gathered the most popular cigar FAQs to help beginners and aficionados alike.
Humidors & Storage
Q: What is the proper humidity to maintain in a humidor?
A: Between 65% and 75% humidity (70% being ideal).
Q: What is the proper temperature for cigar storage?
A: Around 70°F (21°C). This prevents mould, beetles, and other risks while allowing proper ageing.
Q: How do I maintain humidity in a humidor?
A: Use a humidification element (often a sponge or crystal-based device). Initially charge it with a 50/50 mixture of distilled water and propylene glycol, then top up with distilled water monthly.
Q: What is a hygrometer? Do I need one?
A: A hygrometer measures humidity. They’re useful, but not essential — always trust how your cigars feel and smoke. If they’re cracking, they’re too dry; if spongy or musty, too wet.
Q: Why is proper humidification important?
A: Too much humidity = mould or rot. Too little = cigars dry out, burn hot, and lose flavour.
Q: How long can cigars be stored?
A: Indefinitely, if kept in the right conditions. Many cigars have been preserved perfectly for 50+ years.
Cigar Basics
Q: What does “premium” cigar mean?
A: A premium cigar is handmade from 100% natural tobacco, usually with long filler, binder, and wrapper. No chemicals or additives are used.
Q: What is a “Puro”?
A: A cigar made entirely from tobacco grown in a single country (e.g., Cuban puros).
Q: What do the two numbers mean in cigar sizes?
A: Length (in inches) × ring gauge (diameter measured in 64ths of an inch). Example: a 6″ × 50 cigar is 6 inches long with a 50/64″ diameter.
Q: Do cigar names indicate size?
A: Often yes. Common names include Robusto (short & thick), Corona (medium), Churchill (long & thick), and Toro (between robusto & Churchill). Figurados (e.g., Torpedo, Perfecto) are shaped rather than straight-sided.
Q: What is a cigar punch or bullet?
A: A punch creates a small hole in the cap instead of cutting it off. A bullet punch works the same way, but resembles a cartridge case.
Lighting & Smoking
Q: What makes a proper lighter for cigars?
A: Always use butane lighters or cedar spills. Avoid petrol lighters, which taint flavour. Torch (jet flame) lighters are popular for their power, but keep the cigar above the flame — never in it.
Q: Is there a correct way to light a cigar?
A: Yes. Toast the foot gently by holding the flame a few centimetres away, rotating the cigar until evenly lit. Draw slowly — don’t char the tobacco.
Q: How does cigar size affect flavour?
A: Larger ring gauges tend to offer more flavour complexity, while longer cigars smoke cooler.
Q: How do I blow smoke rings?
A: Draw smoke in, form your lips into an “O”, and push smoke out with your tongue without exhaling. Practice makes perfect.
Travelling With Cigars
Q: How do I carry cigars when travelling?
A: Options include:
- Cigar tubes (single protection, days to weeks)
- Leather or metal finger cases (carry 2–4 cigars, short-term use)
- Travel humidors (store 4–20 cigars with humidification, ideal for longer trips)
Wrappers, Tobacco & Flavour
Q: How do cigars from different countries taste?
A: Jamaican = mild, Dominican = medium, Honduran & Nicaraguan = stronger and more full-bodied, Cuban = earthy, complex, and unique.
Q: What are Ligero, Seco, and Volado?
A: They are leaf types from different parts of the plant. Ligero = strong, aromatic (top leaves). Seco = mild and aromatic (middle leaves). Volado = neutral but essential for burn (lower leaves).
Q: What is Maduro?
A: A dark, ripe wrapper leaf that gives cigars a rich, sweet, sometimes earthy flavour.
Q: Why are wrapper leaves so important?
A: The wrapper can contribute 30–60% of a cigar’s flavour. Thin veins, even colour, and oily sheen are signs of quality.
Common Questions About Cuban Cigars
Q: Why are Cuban cigars so distinguished?
A: Cuba’s unique climate, soil, and tradition make its cigars the benchmark for quality. Many exiled families recreated the craft abroad, leading to excellent Dominican, Nicaraguan, and Honduran alternatives.
Q: Why is there high demand for Cubans?
A: Exclusivity, tradition, and reputation. But beware of counterfeits — always buy from trusted UK retailers with EMS certification.