How long can I leave my cigars in their factory boxes?

Tuesday, June 14 2011

Q: I have several humidors but have still managed to run out of space. I see cigars at Famous-Smoke that I would like to order. How long will newly ordered cigars, left in their unopened cellophane wrappers, remain "good" until such time as I can place them in one of my humidors?
- Don in Escondido, CA

A: Sounds like we have something in common. Did you see my blog on my "Tupperdor"?

To answer your question more directly, cigars will remain fresh in their factory boxes and cellos for around 3-weeks, even a month, as long as you subject them to normal temperatures and do not leave them where sunlight can get to them. A cool dark space is preferred. If you've already opened the boxes, that's fine, but if you want to really insure the cigars will last until they can be moved, pick up a box of Boveda 69% humidity packs. One pack will last up to 3 months.