When it comes to crafting elite humidors, primarily utilizes two types of wood for the interior lining:
In this post, we'll delve into Spanish cedar.
Origin of the Spanish cedar name:
Despite its name, Spanish cedar does not originate from Spain but is generally imported from Brazil and other South and Central American countries. The name originated from Cuba, where the wood was associated with the quality of humidors made in Spain.
Historical Context of Spanish Cedar:
Spanish cedar's significance in cigar storage dates back centuries. Recognized for its resistance to insects and mold, it became the preferred choice for humidors, preserving the flavors and aromas of cigars over time.
Exceptional Properties of Spanish Cedar Humidor:
Spanish cedar stands out for numerous properties that make it the premier choice for creating humidors. Its natural aroma, characterized by a delightful blend of sweetness and woodiness, infuses the interior of the humidor, enriching the overall sensory experience. This aromatic essence not only contributes to the ambiance but also plays a vital role in elevating the flavors of the cigars it cradles.
Its ability to enhance aromas, coupled with its capacity to retain moisture, ensures a stable environment within the humidor, conducive to preserving the cigars' quality. Additionally, the wood's inherent stability, resistance to pests and mold, and safety further solidify its status as the optimal choice for crafting the quintessential cigar humidor. Indeed, Spanish cedar's exceptional attributes have cemented its position as a cornerstone in the realm of cigar storage and preservation.
Frequently encountered is the utilization of exceedingly thin veneers
Almost all humidors, regardless of their price range, are now manufactured using an MDF core with a thin layer of wood veneer inside. The most crucial aspect here lies in the type and thickness of the wood being used - many manufacturers of inexpensive humidors opt for MDF with a thin veneer layer of Spanish cedar, rather than solid Spanish cedar. In this scenario, while the exterior may appear to feature Spanish cedar and the description may indicate as such, the veneer provides none of the advantages offered by solid Spanish cedar. At G.P.Grant, we exclusively employ solid Spanish cedar.
Aroma and flavor enhancement, supports the cigar aging process:
Spanish cedar's sweet and woody aroma subtly influences the flavors of stored cigars, enriching the smoking experience.
The interaction between cigars and Spanish cedar leads to nuanced shifts in taste, enhancing the overall complexity of the smoking experience. Additionally, Spanish cedar's moisture retention properties help maintain cigars at their ideal moisture content, preventing them from becoming overly dry or excessively humid. This balance is crucial in preserving the essence and character of each cigar, ensuring it remains true to its blend and origin.
The influence of Spanish cedar becomes particularly pronounced during long-term aging, allowing cigars to absorb the wood's aromatic qualities. This aging process results in cigars with a unique and sophisticated flavor profile, adding an extra layer of enjoyment for enthusiasts. In essence, Spanish cedar contributes to the refinement and depth of flavor that discerning cigar connoisseurs appreciate.
Moisture Regulation:
Spanish cedar wood possesses the remarkable ability to absorb and retain moisture, as well as release it back into the environment. This feature serves a crucial role in maintaining optimal humidity levels within the humidor. When the humidor is opened, Spanish cedar compensates for any moisture fluctuations, ensuring a stable climate throughout. This capability is essential for preserving the quality and flavor of cigars, as they necessitate a specific humidity range to avoid drying out or becoming excessively moist. In essence, Spanish cedar facilitates the maintenance of an ideal environment for cigar storage, safeguarding their integrity and enhancing the overall smoking experience.
Mold Resistance:
Spanish cedar possesses natural oils and resins that contribute to its resistance against mold and fungus. These inherent properties make it less susceptible to mold-related issues, which could otherwise compromise the quality of stored cigars. By incorporating Spanish cedar into a humidor, cigar enthusiasts can rest assured that their prized collection remains protected within a clean and mold-free environment. This resilience to mold ensures that the cigars maintain their integrity and remain unaffected by potential contaminants, preserving their quality for a superior smoking experience.
Protection from Tobacco Beetles/Repelling Insects:
Spanish cedar wood possesses natural oils and resins that serve as a deterrent to insects, including tobacco beetles, which pose a threat to stored cigars. These beetles have the potential to inflict significant damage or even destroy cigars if left unchecked. By incorporating Spanish cedar into a humidor, cigar enthusiasts can effectively safeguard their collection against these pests, minimizing the risk of infestation.
Durability:
Spanish cedar is renowned for its exceptional durability, making it an ideal choice for creating humidors. This sturdy wood type is highly resistant to warping and cracking, even in humid conditions. Its robust nature ensures that humidors crafted from Spanish cedar maintain their structural integrity over time, providing long-lasting protection for cigars.
Obtaining this prized wood can be difficult, as it typically needs to be imported from Latin America or sourced from plantations in West Africa. Moreover, in many regions, there is limited demand for Spanish cedar, leading most timber merchants to overlook its importation due to its niche status.
For the average consumer, and even seasoned cigar enthusiasts, the distinctions between Spanish cedar and other tropical woods may not be immediately apparent at the time of purchase. As a result, alternative woods such as mahogany or other tropical varieties are often substituted in humidors. Additionally, the confusion stemming from the similarity in names sometimes leads to the erroneous use of red cedar, which can impart an undesirable scent that interferes with the aroma of cigars.
