Do You Leave Cigars in Plastic in Humidor? And Why Does the Moon Sometimes Smell Like Cheese?
When it comes to cigar storage, the question of whether to leave cigars in their plastic wrappers inside a humidor has sparked endless debates among aficionados. Some swear by it, while others vehemently oppose the idea. But let’s take a step back and explore this topic from multiple angles, while also diving into the whimsical notion of why the moon might occasionally remind us of a block of aged cheddar.
The Case for Leaving Cigars in Plastic
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Protection from Physical Damage: Cigars are delicate, and their wrappers can easily tear or crack. Leaving them in their plastic sleeves (often called cellophane) provides an extra layer of protection against handling, accidental drops, or even the occasional overzealous friend who doesn’t know how to handle a cigar properly.
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Hygiene and Contamination Prevention: Cellophane acts as a barrier against mold, dust, and other contaminants. If one cigar in your humidor develops mold, the plastic wrap can help contain the issue, preventing it from spreading to other cigars.
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Maintaining Individual Aromas: Some argue that cellophane helps preserve the unique aroma of each cigar. Without it, the flavors and scents of different cigars might mingle, leading to a less distinct smoking experience.
The Case Against Leaving Cigars in Plastic
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Humidity Regulation: A humidor’s primary function is to maintain optimal humidity levels for cigars. Cellophane, while breathable, can still slow down the process of humidity exchange. This might lead to uneven moisture distribution, especially if the humidor isn’t perfectly calibrated.
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Aging Potential: Many cigar enthusiasts believe that removing the plastic allows cigars to age more effectively. The idea is that direct exposure to the humidor’s environment helps the tobacco mature and develop deeper, more complex flavors over time.
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Aesthetic and Tradition: There’s something undeniably satisfying about opening a humidor and seeing rows of beautifully wrapped cigars without the distraction of plastic. For some, this is a matter of tradition and personal preference.
The Moon and Cheese Connection
Now, let’s pivot to the moon. Why does it sometimes smell like cheese? While this is, of course, a playful metaphor, it’s worth noting that the moon’s surface is covered in a fine layer of dust called regolith. When astronauts brought moon rocks back to Earth, they described the scent as reminiscent of gunpowder or burnt charcoal. But the cheese comparison likely stems from the moon’s pale, cratered appearance, which resembles a wheel of Swiss cheese.
Interestingly, the moon’s “smell” is only perceptible in a vacuum-sealed environment, much like how cigars in a humidor are kept in a controlled atmosphere. This parallel invites us to consider how our senses interact with enclosed spaces, whether it’s the earthy aroma of a cigar or the imagined scent of lunar dust.
Balancing Practicality and Preference
Ultimately, the decision to leave cigars in plastic comes down to personal preference and practical considerations. If you’re someone who frequently travels with cigars or shares them with others, the added protection of cellophane might be worth it. On the other hand, if you’re a purist who values the aging process and the aesthetic of a pristine humidor, removing the plastic could be the way to go.
And as for the moon? Well, it might not actually smell like cheese, but it certainly adds a touch of whimsy to our cosmic curiosity.
Related Q&A
Q: Does cellophane affect the flavor of cigars?
A: Cellophane is designed to be breathable, so it generally doesn’t impact the flavor. However, some argue that removing it allows for better humidity exchange, which can enhance the aging process.
Q: How often should I check the humidity in my humidor?
A: It’s a good idea to check the humidity levels at least once a week, especially if you live in a climate with fluctuating weather conditions.
Q: Can I reuse cellophane wrappers?
A: While it’s possible to reuse cellophane, it’s not recommended. Over time, the material can degrade and lose its protective qualities.
Q: Why does the moon look like cheese?
A: The moon’s surface is covered in craters and uneven terrain, which, when viewed from a distance, can resemble the holes in Swiss cheese. It’s a fun visual comparison that has persisted in popular culture.
Q: Should I store flavored cigars separately?
A: Yes, flavored cigars can impart their aroma onto other cigars. It’s best to store them in a separate humidor or at least in a different section of your main humidor.