Description
Indulge in the unparalleled luxury of the Cohiba Behike 56, a true masterpiece of Cuban cigar craftsmanship. This exquisite **Laguito No. 6 vitola**, measuring an impressive 6 1/2 inches with a 56 ring gauge, offers a **full-bodied** smoking experience characterized by its signature blend of rich, complex flavors. Expect a symphony of **leather, wood, spices, vanilla, dark chocolate, and roasted nuts**, culminating in a creamy, intensely satisfying finish. The Behike 56 is more than just a cigar; it’s an embodiment of Cuban heritage and a testament to the art of premium tobacco cultivation.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 10 |
|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 10 |
| Packaging Type | Black Lacquered Box |
| Ideal For | Special Occasions, Collectors, Aficionados |
| Humidity Protection | Excellent, when stored properly in a humidor. |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | BHK 56 (Laguito No. 6) |
| Length | 166 mm (6 1/2 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 56 |
| Wrapper | Cuban, Vuelta Abajo |
| Binder | Cuban, Vuelta Abajo |
| Filler | Cuban, Vuelta Abajo (Volado, Seco, Ligero, Medio Tiempo) |
| Strength | Full |
| Body | Full |
| Smoking Time | Approximately 2 hours |
| Factory | El Laguito Factory, Cuba |
| Brand Owner | Habanos S.A. |
Brand Heritage
Cohiba, the crown jewel of Cuban cigars, boasts a history steeped in exclusivity and prestige. Born in 1966, Cohiba was initially created as the private blend for Fidel Castro and high-ranking Cuban government officials. Sourced from the finest tobacco fields in the Vuelta Abajo region, the cigars were meticulously crafted to deliver an unparalleled smoking experience.
For years, Cohiba remained a closely guarded secret, enjoyed only by a select few. It wasn’t until 1982 that the brand was officially introduced to the public, quickly establishing itself as the epitome of luxury and Cuban cigar excellence. The name “Cohiba” itself comes from the Taíno Indian word for tobacco, further solidifying the brand’s connection to Cuban heritage.
The Behike line, including the coveted BHK 56, represents the pinnacle of Cohiba’s artistry. Launched in 2010, these cigars are distinguished by the inclusion of the rare Medio Tiempo leaf, a sun-grown leaf found only on some of the highest tobacco plants. This leaf imparts a unique depth and complexity to the blend, making the Behike series a truly exceptional and sought-after smoking experience. The BHK 52 even earned Cigar Aficionado’s coveted “Cigar of the Year” award in 2010, cementing the Behike line’s place in cigar history.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
The Cohiba Behike 56 begins with a bold and assertive introduction, immediately engaging the palate with robust notes of **leather**, aged **wood**, and a generous helping of warming **spices**. A subtle earthiness provides a grounding foundation, while hints of **cedar** add a touch of refinement. The initial spice is present but well-balanced, creating a refined, full-bodied start that sets the stage for the complexities to come.
Second Third – The Heart
As the Behike 56 progresses, the profile gracefully transitions, revealing a creamy and elegant core. Notes of sweet **vanilla** emerge, intertwined with the richness of **dark chocolate** and the satisfying crunch of **roasted nuts**. Subtle nuances of **dried fruits** and a touch of **honey** add layers of depth and complexity, creating a harmonious balance between power and finesse. The initial spice mellows slightly, allowing the sweeter notes to shine through.
Final Third – The Crescendo
In the final third, the Cohiba Behike 56 steadily builds in strength and intensity, culminating in a smooth and richly rewarding finish. The initial flavors deepen and intensify, with the **spice** returning to the forefront, now intertwined with a profound **tobacco** depth. The **leather** and **wood** notes become more pronounced, creating a powerful yet balanced crescendo. The lingering sweetness from the second third persists, providing a counterpoint to the growing intensity.
Finish
The finish of the Cohiba Behike 56 is long, satisfying, and palate-coating. A creamy sweetness lingers on the tongue, complemented by a subtle peppery spice that provides a pleasant tingling sensation. The overall impression is one of profound richness and complexity, leaving a lasting impression that is both memorable and deeply satisfying.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Leather, Wood, Spices |
| Secondary Notes | Vanilla, Dark Chocolate, Roasted Nuts |
| Tertiary Notes | Dried Fruits, Honey, Cedar |
| Finish | Creamy Sweetness, Subtle Pepper |
| Aroma | Refined Tobacco, Subtle Spice, Earthy Undertones |
Aging and Collector Value
The Cohiba Behike 56 possesses exceptional aging potential, making it a prized addition to any serious cigar collector’s humidor. The rare Medio Tiempo leaves, a key component of the Behike blend, contribute to its ability to evolve and develop even greater complexity over time. As the cigar ages, the initial spice tends to mellow, allowing the creaminess and sweetness to become more prominent. The flavors meld together, creating a smoother and more harmonious smoking experience.
The optimal aging period for the Behike 56 is generally considered to be between 2 and 5 years. During this time, the cigar will undergo significant changes, developing a deeper and more nuanced profile. However, the Behike 56 can also be enjoyed fresh, offering a bold and intense smoking experience for those who prefer a more upfront flavor profile.
To ensure proper aging, it is crucial to store the Behike 56 in a humidor with a relative humidity of 65-72% and a temperature of 65-70°F. A Spanish cedar humidor is highly recommended, as the cedar wood helps to regulate humidity and impart a subtle aroma that complements the cigar’s flavor profile. Proper storage will preserve the cigar’s oils and promote even aging, ensuring a consistently exceptional smoking experience for years to come.
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Aged Cuban Rum | The sweetness and oaky notes of aged Cuban rum complement the cigar’s tobacco and spice, creating a harmonious and synergistic pairing. |
| Single Malt Whiskey (Islay) | The peaty and smoky character of Islay scotch provides a bold counterpoint to the cigar’s richness, creating a complex and intriguing flavor combination. |
| XO Cognac | The vanilla and caramel notes of XO Cognac enhance the cigar’s sweetness and add a touch of elegance to the overall experience. |
| Dark Roast Espresso | The intense and bitter flavors of dark roast espresso amplify the cigar’s earthy notes and provide a stimulating and satisfying contrast. |
| Full-bodied Red Wine (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon) | A robust red wine with tannins and dark fruit flavors can stand up to the cigar’s strength, creating a balanced and enjoyable pairing. |
| Spiced Coffee | The aromatic spices of spiced coffee (cinnamon, nutmeg, clove) echo the spice notes in the cigar, creating a warm and inviting combination. |
Authenticity Verification
We understand the importance of authenticity when investing in premium Cuban cigars. We guarantee that all our Cohiba Behike 56 cigars are 100% authentic, sourced directly from authorized Habanos S.A. distributors. To ensure your peace of mind, here are key indicators of authenticity:
- Habanos Holographic Seal – Each box features a holographic seal on the right corner. The seal contains a unique serial number and intricate designs that are difficult to replicate.
- Box Code Verification – The box code, typically found stamped on the bottom of the box, can be verified through the Habanos S.A. website or app. This code confirms the origin and production date of the cigars.
- Factory Stamp – The factory where the cigars were produced is often stamped on the bottom of the box. In the case of Behike, this is typically the El Laguito factory.
- Triple Cap – Cohiba cigars are known for their distinctive triple cap, a sign of superior craftsmanship. The cap should be perfectly formed and seamlessly applied.
Our Guarantee: If any cigar fails Habanos verification, we provide a full refund. Trusted by collectors since 2015.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Cohiba Behike 56 taste like?
The Cohiba Behike 56 offers a complex and evolving flavor profile. Initially, you’ll experience notes of **leather, wood, and spices**. As the cigar progresses, it transitions to a creamy sweetness with hints of **vanilla, dark chocolate, and roasted nuts**. The finish is long and satisfying, with a lingering spice.
How long does it take to smoke a Behike 56?
The Cohiba Behike 56, due to its size (6 1/2 inches with a 56 ring gauge), typically takes around 2 hours to smoke. This makes it an ideal cigar for a leisurely and contemplative smoking experience.
Is the Cohiba Behike 56 worth the price?
The Cohiba Behike 56 is considered a luxury cigar due to its rarity, the use of the exclusive Medio Tiempo leaf, and the flawless construction. For experienced cigar smokers who appreciate complexity and quality, it is often deemed worth the investment. However, value is subjective and depends on individual preferences.
How should I store Cohiba Behike cigars?
To properly store Cohiba Behike cigars, maintain a relative humidity of 65-72% and a temperature of 65-70°F in a humidor. Using a Spanish cedar humidor is highly recommended as it helps regulate humidity and imparts a subtle aroma that complements the cigar’s flavor.
