A true cigar aficionado accepts nothing but the best when it comes to a stogie storage place. A humidor recreates the humidity ranges of the Caribbean to keep the tobacco from drying out.


1. Look for boxes made from wood that has been dried to a 6 percent moisture content. Ask your humidor specialist for the specs on his products.

2. Ask for features that can be customized. Some humidor humidification systems can be changed to suit the user's preferences.

3. Decide on a size based on the smoker's collection. Average humidors store anywhere from 25 to 100 stogies; the larger ones hold 100, though the diligent shopper may find a table-top model to accommodate 300.

4. Pick out an exterior that fits the recipient's personal style. Simple stained wood boxes are perfect for the minimalist; others might go for more ornate pieces.

5. Ask to see and touch a cigar that has been stored in the humidor. Look for a smooth, tight wrap and an absence of lumps and cracked paper to indicate good humidification.

TIPS

Include a few good cigars inside the humidor for optimum smoking pleasure.

Wrap an ashtray and/or a cigar cutter as a finishing touch to your gift.