Dark spots on a cigar can be concerning, but not all discolorations indicate a problem. Many are natural occurrences from the tobacco plant or aging process. Understanding these markings helps determine if your cigar is in good condition or needs discarding. This guide clarifies various dark spots and what actions to take.
Common Types of Dark Spots on Cigars
Dark spots on cigars originate from various sources. These include natural tobacco characteristics, oil exudation, and environmental factors.
Plume
Plume, also known as bloom, appears as a fine, powdery white or grayish crystalline substance on the cigar’s wrapper. It is a natural byproduct of the aging process, forming as oils and sugars from the tobacco leaf rise to the surface and crystallize. Plume indicates the cigar has aged well under proper storage conditions.
Tobacco Blemishes
Tobacco blemishes are inherent variations in the tobacco leaf, appearing as darker patches, veins, or irregular discolorations. These can include green spots from residual chlorophyll or dark streaks from fermentation imperfections. Such blemishes are part of the cigar’s natural composition and do not affect the smoking experience or flavor.
Oil Spots
Oil spots are concentrated areas of natural oils from the tobacco leaf, appearing as darker, translucent patches. They indicate a cigar made from oily tobacco and are often a sign of a well-aged, flavorful cigar, as these oils contribute to the tobacco’s aroma and taste.
Mold
Mold is a fungal growth indicating overly humid storage conditions. It typically presents as fuzzy or powdery patches, which can be white, green, blue, gray, or black. Unlike plume, mold compromises the cigar’s quality and poses health risks if smoked.
Water Stains
Water stains are discolorations on the cigar wrapper caused by moisture exposure. They appear as dark, irregular splotches, often from water droplets marking the leaf during cultivation or processing. While indicating past moisture issues, these stains are primarily cosmetic and do not affect the cigar’s flavor or performance.
How to Identify Different Dark Spots
Distinguishing between various dark spots relies on careful observation. Key indicators include visual cues, tactile characteristics, and odor.
Visual Characteristics
Plume appears as a uniform, fine, white or grayish dust covering large areas. Mold often looks fuzzy, fibrous, or web-like, and can be discolored with shades of green, blue, black, or orange. Tobacco blemishes and oil spots are flat, integrated into the leaf’s surface, appearing as irregular patches or darker veins. Water stains also appear flat and as discolored patches.
Texture and Feel
Gently brush the spot to test its texture. Plume easily wipes away, leaving no stain or residue. Mold is more stubborn; it will not easily brush off and may smear or leave a stain, indicating penetration. Mold can feel sticky or moist. Tobacco blemishes and oil spots are part of the leaf’s structure, so they cannot be wiped off and feel smooth.
Odor
Odor is a key indicator, particularly for mold. A mold-affected cigar often has a distinct musty, damp, or earthy smell, similar to mildew. Cigars with plume, tobacco blemishes, or oil spots retain their natural, pleasant tobacco aroma. The absence of an unpleasant odor suggests the spot is not mold.
What to Do When You Find Dark Spots
Once a dark spot is identified, the appropriate course of action depends on its nature. Promptly addressing these issues helps preserve your cigar collection.
If it’s Plume, Tobacco Blemish, or Oil Spot
If the spots are plume, tobacco blemishes, or oil spots, the cigar is safe to smoke. Plume can be gently brushed off before smoking, as it is harmless and indicates proper aging. Tobacco blemishes and oil spots are permanent features of the tobacco leaf and do not need removal. These natural markings do not impact the cigar’s flavor or burn quality.
If it’s Mold
If mold is confirmed, discard the affected cigar. Mold can penetrate deep into the tobacco, making it unsafe to smoke due to health risks from inhaling fungal spores. Mold can spread rapidly, so inspect all other cigars in the humidor and thoroughly clean the humidor to prevent further contamination.
If it’s a Water Stain
Water stains indicate past moisture exposure, suggesting improper storage or handling. While cosmetic and not affecting flavor or burn, check the cigar’s overall condition. Ensure it is not overly soft or bloated, which indicates excessive moisture retention. Reviewing your humidor’s humidity levels is advisable to prevent future moisture issues.
Preventing Dark Spots on Cigars
Preventing problematic dark spots, especially mold, involves maintaining a stable and controlled storage environment. Consistent attention to humidor conditions is important.
Humidor Maintenance
Proper humidor seasoning establishes a stable internal environment. Maintain a consistent relative humidity (RH) between 65% and 72%, as this range prevents excessive dryness and mold growth. A stable temperature, ideally around 65-70°F (18-21°C), also contributes to a healthy storage environment. Regularly inspect cigars and monitor humidor conditions with a hygrometer to detect and address issues early.
Cigar Handling and Storage
Avoid direct contact of cigars with water or overly saturated humidification elements. Use distilled water or a propylene glycol solution in humidifiers to prevent mineral buildup and mold. Ensure good air circulation within the humidor by not overpacking it, allowing air to flow freely. Periodically rotating cigars helps ensure uniform humidification and air exposure, reducing the likelihood of dark spots.