How To Tell If A Cigar Has Gone Bad and What To Do

Dryness: A dry cigar feels brittle and may crumble when touched, indicating it has lost its moisture due to improper storage. Cigars need humidity (65-70%) to stay fresh. When dried out, they lose their natural oils, leading to cracks, poor burn quality, and diminished flavor.

Taste: If a cigar tastes harsh, bitter, or different from its usual flavor, it may have deteriorated. This often happens when cigars are improperly aged or stored, causing the tobacco's balance of oils and moisture to break down. Proper storage in a humidor helps prevent this.

Smell: A foul or musty odor from a cigar is a clear indication that it may be spoiled. This unpleasant smell often suggests the presence of mold or mildew, which typically occurs when cigars are stored improperly. A bad odor not only signals that the cigar isn't fresh, but it can also adversely affect the taste and overall smoking experience.

Mold: Visible mold on the wrapper or other parts of a cigar is a sign of excessive humidity and poor storage conditions. Mold growth renders the cigar unsafe to smoke and indicates that the environment has not been properly controlled. It's crucial to avoid smoking cigars that exhibit these signs, as they can lead to health issues and an unpleasant experience.
 

Regularly inspecting your cigars for signs of spoilage, such as foul odors or mold, is essential to ensure you enjoy them at their best. Proper storage and humidity control are key factors in maintaining the quality and flavor of your cigars.