El Septimo’s Zaya Younan Secures Patent for Innovative Cooling Ashtray

Zaya Younan, CEO of El Septimo Cigars, has been awarded a U.S. design patent for a ground-breaking ashtray that integrates a cooling chamber, a cigar humidor, and a refreshment cup. This innovative design aims to enhance the smoking experience by regulating cigar temperature without electricity or batteries.

The patented ashtray, described as a multi-functional cigar ashtray assembly, is designed to combat the excessive heat generated during cigar combustion. According to Younan, a lit cigar can reach temperatures of up to 880°C (1,600°F), with resting temperatures ranging from 400°C to 500°C. These high temperatures can cause essential oils and sugars in the tobacco to evaporate rapidly, leading to a bitter taste.

“The refrigerator ashtray works by transferring excess heat away when a cigar is rested on it,” Younan explained. “This reduces the cigar’s temperature significantly, preserving and even enhancing its flavour.”

At first glance, the cooling ashtray resembles a traditional design, but it comprises three compartments. The top section functions as a standard ashtray, while the middle compartment houses a removable cooling chamber. Users can fill its circumference with water, which freezes into ice, keeping the ashtray cool for over two hours. Additionally, the interior slot can store refreshments, such as nuts, to cleanse the palate. The bottom compartment serves as a humidor, designed to hold cigars, a Boveda packet, and accessories.

The company has not yet disclosed pricing or a release date for the product. The United States Design Patent was filed in September 2023 and granted in February 2025 under patent number US D1,064,394 S. Enthusiasts eagerly await further updates on this cutting-edge accessory from El Septimo.