It was Alfred Dunhill, back in 1907, who invented the correct technology for storing cigars. In one of his stores, he installed a Cabinet with thick wooden walls inside which was a small tank of water, and it became known as the humidor. But, unfortunately, this revolutionary innovation did not become widespread, because it was believed that it was easier to store cigars in a dark, damp basement, since there were basements in almost every house at that time. But over time, the mass distribution of Central heating in Europe has turned damp basements into warm and dry and thus unsuitable for storing products made of elite tobacco.
A little more than 50 years later, Zino Davidoff visited Cuba, noticed that the taste and aroma of local cigars are significantly different from those sold in Europe and installed a humidor, which is almost no different from the analog of Dunhill. In addition, he invented a more compact version: a small box made of wood, the bottom of which was covered with a piece of wet cloth. The cigars stored in such devices had a significantly better aroma and taste.
Features of the humidors
What is the correct name for a cigar storage box? Humidor in Latin means “wet”. Modern models of humidors differ in shape and capacity. Today, you can buy an option – from miniature pocket boxes to cabinets. But before buying, you need to think carefully and pay attention to the following nuances:
• The price range of humidors may vary depending on the quality of the hygrometer and humidifier. It is these devices that you need to focus on when choosing a model. Therefore, the ideal option is to choose a humidor of the minimum suitable size with optimal parameters of the quality of devices.
* Think about the approximate number of cigars you are going to store and choose the minimum size model. Small table boxes can hold up to 25 cigars, while large cases can hold up to 150. Models with multiple drawers divided into sections can be a great solution for storing cigars of different varieties. Road models are small plastic boxes designed for 10-15 cigars. Although in some cases, it may well become a budget alternative to a desktop humidor.
• Make sure that your humidor is made of cedar from the inside during the selection process. It is this material that provides the optimal humidity index inside the case and air ventilation. Metal and plastic analogs cannot maintain the required temperature.
• An important point is the choice of a humidifier. As a rule, humidifiers are included in the sales package of cigar boxes, but knowing about the features of each type, you can make the right choice. Most often, sponges are used as a humidifier, since this is the cheapest option. They are wetted with propylene glycol and attached to the inner lid of the box. Silica balls are durable and easy to operate, this material is quite durable. They are soaked in distilled water. The most effective humidifiers are electronic models, but they are, accordingly, the most expensive.
* Hygrometers record humidity indicators, they can be placed inside the case or outside. They are available in digital and analog versions.
When you become the owner of a humidor, don’t rush to load it with cigars right away. To begin with, you need to create an optimal microclimate in it and it will take you at least a week. To start, fill the humidifier and place it inside the box. Pour distilled water into a small container, put it in the humidor, close the lid, and monitor the humidity and temperature for a week. After that, you can store cigars there.