Abstract: In order to find out the optimal aging method and aging time of flue-cured tobacco leaves for better quality and lower cost, With redried central flue-cured tobacco leaves from Zhucheng city, Shandong Province as the experimental materials, sensory quality of leaves were comparatively evaluated throughout the whole artificial and natural aging period. Results showed that the optimal aging time of the studied leave samples was about 18 months for both two aging methods. However, compared with natural aging, artificial aging showed a better improving effect on tobacco leave quality. This study would provide guidance for tobacco industry in selecting suitable aging method and aging time according to their own raw materials stock situation and product quality criteria, which is conducive to quality improvement and cost savings.