Here you will find the most common questions about Habanos cigars. If you do not find an answer that helps you, do not hesitate to contact us.
1. What does Habano Cigar mean?
The name “Habano” is an official Denominacion de Origen Protegida (D.O.P) or Protected Designation of Origin and is only used to describe Cuban cigars of the highest quality. To be considered Habano cigars, they must be handmade in Cuba according to the most demanding standards set by the Regulatory Council and use only tobacco grown only in certain areas of the island. These areas are also protected as designations of origin.
2. What does the term "ring" mean?
The ring is the measurement of the width of the cigar and is measured as 64th of an inch. Therefore a ring measuring 42 means 42/64 inches or 16.67mm in diameter.
3. Does the size of a cigar affect its intensity?
The intensity of a cigar determine from the mixture of leaves inside. The size of the cigar determines its combustion speed. Fine cigars burn relatively quickly as opposed to thick ones. Length also plays a key role. Each brand has a different leaf mix, which means that a Robusto will not be the same in different companies, although the size will be the same.
4. Does the color of the Wrapper indicate the strength of a cigar?
No. Although the colors differ between the boxes the internal mixture of cigar leaves is what determines the strength of a cigar and aroma. Wrapper provides a slight addition to the flavor of the cigar with the dark ones giving a sense of sweetness and the light ones a sign of dryness.
5. What are the colors of a Habano wrapper?
The main color categories of a wrapper are Claro, Colorado Claro, Colorado, Colorado Maduro, Maduro. All cigars in any box of an authentic Habano must have exactly the same shade.
6. What are the proper conditions for storing cigars in a humidifier?
Habanos should be stored between 16-18 ° C and 65-70% humidity. Humidity is very important. If the cigar gets too wet, it will be difficult to light it and too much moisture will block and dilute the natural oils who released when you light a cigar. In addition, if you let the cigar dry, these oils will be dissolved and can lead to an unsatisfied smoking experience.
7. How do I check if my cigars are stored in the right conditions?
There are several types of hygrometers that offer you an accurate reading of moisture in your humidifier. However, a simple and reliable way to check the condition of a cigar is to hold it between your thumb and forefinger and gently press. If you feel it stable but elastic then it is in good condition. If it is hard and brittle it means it is dry. When it is soft and spongy, it means that your cigars are very wet.
8. Can my cigars dry out?
It is important to store cigars properly at all times. Cigars that are not stored properly can dry quickly, become brittle and be at risk of damage. If the cigars have lost moisture in a short time and are a little hard, they are quite easy to get back. Just put them back in a well-kept humidor and let them recover again. This may take a few days. Dried cigars have been the most problematic for a long time. If left dry for a long time, cigars will permanently lose their natural oils and flavor. It’s always worth trying to get them back, as the alternative is to throw them away.
9. My cigars have a white powder, what is that?
This “dust” is called “bloom” and usually occurs when cigars are exposed to a sudden increase in humidity. It is a sign that the cigars are alive and well and should simply be removed with a soft brush. A cigar in this condition is absolutely safe to smoke.
10. The cigars in my humidifier showed some holes, what is this?
Unfortunately, the news is not good. Poor cigar preservation conditions allow you to create the well-known Lasioderma tobacco worm. You need to remove all the cigars from the humidifier, thoroughly clean it and unfortunately throw away all the cigars that have holes. Check the temperature because cigars are living organisms and at high temperatures favor the growth of microorganisms.
11. If I don't have a humidifier can I store them in the fridge?
No. Refrigerators have a dry environment and do not meet the requirements for the maintenance of a cigar. Cigar also absorbs all odors
12. Should tube packaging cigars have to be stored in a humidor?
The cigars that are packaged in this form are kept in ideal conditions a little longer in combination with the inner leaf of cedar. However, it is not advisable to keep them out of the humidor for a long time.
13. I plan to travel and I don't have a humidor what to do?
Get special moisture bags or choose cigars in tube (aluminum) packaging. In case it is not possible, keep the box closed and protected from shakes or get special cigar cases so that you have your favorite habano wherever you are.
14. 14. Are the cigars in the small packages I see here different from the rest?
No, small packages e.g. three or five cigars allow you to take your favorite Habano with you or make a wonderful gift. They are available in paper, aluminum and wood.
15. I have cigars in my humidor that I bought years ago, can I smoke them?
Of course. If they are in the right conditions all this time you can smoke and enjoy them. The time spent will reward you.
16. Do I need to remove the band before lighting my cigar?
No. Removing the band can damage the wrapper. If you want to remove it, do it after a while, when the cigar has been heated and the removal will be easier. For more information on how to smoke, click here.
17. I don't want to smoke all the cigar what do I do?
Just leave it softly on the ashtray and it will go out on its own. Cigars do not go out like cigarettes.
18. I can light my cigar again if it is off.
Of course. First remove any excess ash with a gentle tap on the ashtray. Cut the edge with your cutter to avoid the cigar tasting bitter or burnt. Then light your cigar as you would initially.
19. How do I know that the cigars I bought are genuine Habanos?
When you have the reputation of Habanos, it is natural to have imitations. However, there are ways to determine if your cigars are genuine. Each Habanos box should have the Quarantine Guarantee Seal, the Denomination of Origin Seal, and the seals on the bottom of the box. See more here.
20. I see separate names like Editon Limitada, Regional, Anejados, Reserva what are they?
There are two ways a Habanos cigar can benefit over time. One is when the leaves let them mature longer before they become cigars and the other when the cigars are sealed in their box. Various types of aging aimed at specific markets have to do with the above names.
