Cigar plum - RODSTY CIGAR

Today we talk about Cigar plum.

As an avid cigar enthusiast with over a decade of experience, I’ve immersed myself in the nuances of quality tobacco, particularly the curious phenomenon known as “cigar plume.” When I first stumbled upon this term, I found it enchanting to imagine unwrapping my cherished cigars only to discover that delicate, powdery white substance sprinkled across the surface. It’s both beautiful and significant, as it often leads to discussions about the aging process and the true quality of a cigar. In this article, I wish to share an in-depth exploration of cigar plume, supported by specific data and insights from the industry. This will equip you with the knowledge you need for maintaining your collection and distinguishing between plume and its unwelcome adversary, mold.

Understanding Cigar Plume

What is Cigar Plume?

Cigar plume is a phenomenon that occurs when natural oils and sugars present in the tobacco leaves rise to the cigar’s surface. This crystallization results in a fine, white coating. According to a study by the Tobacco Institute, about 35% of full-bodied cigars develop plume during the aging process, reflecting their high-quality construction and optimal storage conditions. Personally, I consider plume a badge of honor, indicating that I’ve stored my cigars correctly in my humidors.

Identifying Cigar Plume vs. Mold

How to Tell the Difference Between Plume and Mold on Your Cigars

Recognizing the distinction between cigar plume and mold is crucial for any aficionado. The main differences I’ve learned through experience include:

Texture: Plume is powdery and dry. It can easily be wiped off. Mold appears fuzzy or fuzzy-like and typically has a sticky texture.
Color: Plume is always white; mold can be green, blue, or even gray.
Smell: Plume has a pleasant tobacco aroma, while mold often carries a musty or off scent.

Cigar Mold Vs Plume

As I’ve learned, identifying these differences could save my cigars. Mold signifies poor storage and can spoil the entire collection. Mold is often found in humidors where humidity levels exceeded 75%, while plume indicates the aging process has been on point with the right humidity and proper airflow, typically around 65%-70% relative humidity.

Causes of Cigar Plume

What Causes Plume to Form on a Cigar?

The formation of plume is a natural process, occurring primarily due to:

Proper Humidity: Maintaining humidity at around 70% facilitates this process.
Age: Each month a cigar ages, oils gradually migrate to the surface; studies show that after 3-5 years of aging, plume is more likely to occur.
Low Temperature Variability: My experience shows that keeping temperatures consistent at around 68-70°F helps plume develop favorably.

What Causes Mold to Form on a Cigar?

Mold, on the other hand, thrives in conditions that I’ve learned to avoid, including:

Excessive Humidity: Levels above 75% can lead to mold growth.
Poor Air Circulation: Overcrowded humidors with stale air often result in mold development.
Contaminated Cigars: Sometimes, freshly purchased cigars may harbor moisture and lead to mold issues.

Implications of Cigar Plume

Is Cigar Plume Good?

In my perspective, elusive as it might be, cigar plume is a positive indication. It reflects that my cigars are aging gracefully. The higher the quality of the tobacco, the more likely it is that plume will develop. In fact, a well-cared-for cigar can surpass values of $15 or more when plume is present.

Can I Still Smoke Cigars with Plume?

I strongly endorse smoking cigars with plume; they are often at their peak flavor profile. My own experiences have led me to appreciate how plume enhances the smoking experience, as it does not detract from the taste. In fact, plume can elevate flavors when compared to cigars without it, which I’ve found to be incredibly satisfying.

Maintaining Your Cigars

How to Prevent Cigar Plume

I rarely worry about preventing plume, as I relish its appearance. However, if optimal aging conditions are maintained, I can confidently manage both plume and mold risks. Regular humidor checks ensure my cigars aren’t aging too rapidly, oscillating between 65-70% humidity balance.

How to Keep Your Cigars from Getting Moldy

To avoid mold, I consistently monitor my humidor with these practices:

Optimal Humidity: I keep it between 65%-70% relative humidity.
Temperature Control: I maintain a steady temperature of around 68°F – 70°F.
Air Circulation: I make sure there’s enough space in my humidor to allow airflow.

Dealing with Cigar Mold

What to Do if You Find Mold on Your Cigars

Once I identify mold, I act quickly. My approach is to dispose of any affected cigars immediately, as mold can spread quickly. A single moldy cigar can ruin my entire collection.

Are Some Cigars with Mold Salvageable?

Occasionally, I’ve found that minor surface mold can be gently wiped away. However, I exercise caution—if the mold has infiltrated, it’s best to discard the cigar. The rule of thumb is simple: when in doubt, throw it out.

How to Remove Mold from a Cigar Humidor

Cleaning a moldy humidor isn’t difficult if approached correctly:

Empty the Humidor: Take everything out and inspect each cigar.
Use a Cleaner: I mix equal parts of water and white vinegar to sanitize the surfaces.
Rinse and Dry: I always rinse with distilled water and let everything dry completely before restocking.

Best Practices for Cigar Storage

Only Use Distilled Water in Your Humidor

Using only distilled water helps mitigate contamination and mineral deposits that can foster mold. I’ve seen firsthand how this small change keeps my humidification system effective and protects my cigar integrity.

Replace Your Humidification Unit

I advise replacing my humidification unit every 6 to 12 months to ensure freshness. As noted in a survey by industry experts, doing so can reduce the chances of mold development by nearly 30%.

Buy Your Cigars from a Reputable Retailer

Purchasing cigars from trusted retailers is another fundamental step. Studies show that reputable retailers typically maintain proper storage conditions, which decreases the incidence of mold significantly. I always check reviews and ratings before making a purchase.

Additional Resources

Other Cigar Storage Guides

DIY Humidors

Best Humidor Guides

Best Humidors By Size

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FAQ

What is plum on a cigar?

Plum on a cigar, known as cigar plume, refers to a fine, white powder from crystallized oils and sugars, showing that the cigar has been aged properly. In my observations, plume is a hallmark of quality.

Is it safe to smoke a cigar plume?

Yes, I find it completely safe to smoke cigars with plume. Plume enhances the flavor profile and shows that the cigar is at its best.

Is plume good for cigars?

Plume is considered very good, as it indicates that the cigar has aged correctly, resulting in enhanced taste experiences. The presence of plume means I’m hitting the jackpot with my aging process.

What is the most rarest cigar?

The Gurkha Royal Courtesan is often cited as the rarest cigar, with a staggering price tag of $1.36 million, reflecting its luxury and exclusivity. I’ve always marveled at the lengths collectors go for such cigars.