What is Yellowing?

Yellowing refers to the process by which a cigar’s cellophane or wrapper starts to take on a yellow tint over time, often indicating that the cigar has been aged. This yellowing is caused by the natural oils in the tobacco slowly seeping into the cellophane or wrapper, and it is generally seen as a positive sign that the cigar has been properly stored and aged. Aged cigars often develop more complex and refined flavors, with the yellowing serving as a visual cue that the tobacco has had time to mature. The degree of yellowing can vary depending on the type of tobacco, the storage conditions, and the length of time the cigar has been aged. For cigar collectors, yellowing can be a sign that a cigar has reached its peak flavor and is ready to be enjoyed. However, it’s important to note that yellowing does not guarantee that a cigar has aged well; proper storage in a humidor with controlled temperature and humidity is crucial to preserving the quality of the cigar. Yellowing is just one of many factors that can indicate the condition and age of a cigar, and it is often considered a desirable characteristic by those who appreciate aged tobacco.