The correct question to address is: How to store a partially smoked cigar for later enjoyment? Storing a lit cigar is not possible or safe. Here’s how to store a partially smoked cigar:
Essentially, you're aiming to preserve the remaining portion of the cigar and prevent it from becoming stale or overly bitter.
Here are the steps to properly store a partially smoked cigar, incorporating insights from the provided references:
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Put Out the Cigar: Rest the cigar in an ashtray and allow it to extinguish completely on its own. Do not stub it out, as this can ruin the remaining flavor. (Reference: Step 1)
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Cut the Cigar: You need to clean the foot of the cigar, removing the ashy/burnt portion. Cut the cigar approximately half an inch behind the ash line on the foot. This helps eliminate some of the harsher flavors that develop during smoking. (Reference: Step 2)
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Purge the Cigar Purging involves gently blowing through the cigar to remove stale smoke. While mentioned in the reference list, the exact method is missing. A typical method involves:
- Gently blowing through the cut end of the cigar.
- This helps remove any harsh flavors that may have built up.
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Wrap and Store the Cigar: This is the most crucial step.
- Short-Term Storage (a few hours): A ziplock bag or a cigar tube works well. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
- Longer-Term Storage (more than a few hours): You need to maintain humidity. A humidor is ideal, but a ziplock bag with a small Boveda pack (a humidity control pack) will also work. Place the wrapped cigar in the humidor or ziplock bag with the Boveda pack. Aim for around 65-70% humidity.
Important Considerations:
- Flavor Impact: Be aware that the flavor of a cigar stored after being partially smoked will never be quite the same as smoking it continuously.
- Odor Transfer: Store the cigar separately from other cigars in your humidor to prevent flavor transfer.
- Time Limit: Even with proper storage, it's best to smoke the cigar again within a day or two for the best experience. Longer storage can lead to a stale or bitter taste.
- Humidor Hygiene: Ensure your humidor is clean to prevent mold or other issues that can affect the cigar's flavor and quality.
