Lighting a Cohiba Behike 56 is more than just a ritual; it’s an encounter with the apex of Cuban cigar artistry. Introduced in 2010, this torpedo‑shaped vitola has become a benchmark for aficionados seeking depth, elegance, and a taste that lingers long after the last puff.
Origins and Brand Heritage
The Behike line was created to showcase the most refined techniques within the Cohiba portfolio. The 56‑ring gauge, 166 mm (6½‑inch) format debuted alongside the brand’s broader anniversary celebrations, instantly capturing attention for its sheer size and the promise of an extraordinary smoking experience. Produced at the historic El Laguito factory—renowned for crafting Cuba’s most coveted sticks—the BHK 56 quickly secured its place as a permanent offering in the Cohiba catalog.
Construction and Tobacco Blend
Every BHK 56 is handcrafted by master rollers using a meticulous process that blends tradition with innovation. The cigar’s defining feature is the inclusion of the rare Medio Tiempo leaf, harvested from the uppermost part of the tobacco plant. This leaf imparts a distinctive richness that distinguishes the Behike series from other premium Cubans. The blend also incorporates carefully aged long‑filler tobaccos, a smooth binder, and a lustrous wrapper that together deliver a balanced, full‑bodied profile.
- Factory: Laguito No. 6
- Ring Gauge: 56
- Length: 166 mm (6½ in)
- Weight: 20.42 g
- Construction: Handmade
- Special Feature: Medio Tiempo leaf
- Bands: Behike A and B
- Packaging: Black lacquered boîte nature box of 10 cigars
- Release Year: 2010
- Status: Ongoing regular production
Flavor Profile and Smoking Experience
The first draw on a BHK 56 greets the palate with a coffee‑like bitterness intertwined with buttery smoothness. As the cigar progresses, honeyed sweetness and bright citrus notes emerge, providing a lively counterpoint to the initial depth. Supporting layers of leather and mocha add structure, while the signature Cohiba essence—a subtle, fragrant smokiness—remains ever present. The finish is long and clean, leaving behind hints of caramel, dark chocolate, cocoa, cream, pepper, spice, toast, and vanilla. The smoke evolves gradually, revealing new nuances with each third, making each session a discovery.
Consumer Reception and Ratings
Enthusiasts have awarded the BHK 56 consistently high marks across multiple categories, reflecting its balanced nature and complexity:
- Elegance: 4/5
- Balance: 4/5
- Strength: 4/5
- Complexity: 4/5
- Aftertaste: 4/5
- Overall: 4.63/5
These scores underscore the cigar’s reputation for delivering a refined, multifaceted experience without veering into harshness or overpowering intensity.
Collectibility and Gift Appeal
The BHK 56 arrives in a sleek, black lacquered boîte nature box that holds ten cigars, each protected by Behike’s signature A and B bands. This presentation conveys both luxury and exclusivity, making it a favored choice for collectors and a sophisticated gift for special occasions. Its prominence is further cemented by appearances in limited commemorative releases, such as the Cohiba Selección 50 Aniversario and the BHK 15 Aniversario Humidor, which highlight the vitola’s symbolic status within the brand’s heritage.
