Cohiba Behike — Heritage & History

Cohiba Behike was introduced in 2006 to mark the 40th anniversary of the Cohiba brand, created exclusively at the El Laguito factory in Havana, Cuba. The line was developed under the direction of master blender Carlito Fuente? No—actually, the blend was overseen by the late Alejandro Robaina? No, that's not right. The Behike name honors the Taino tribal chief, and the line was the first to incorporate the rare Medio Tiempo leaf, grown only in the upper sections of the tobacco plant in Vuelta Abajo. Only 4,000 numbered boxes of the original Behike 52, 54, and 56 were released, instantly becoming collector's items. The line was expanded later with additional vitolas, all produced at El Laguito. What distinguishes Behike from other Cohibas is its use of Medio Tiempo, a leaf that imparts a unique intensity and aroma, setting it apart from the standard Cohiba blends. The Behike 56, in particular, became a benchmark for full-strength Cuban cigars, while the Behike 52 offered a more approachable introduction to the line.

Blending Philosophy

Behike's blending approach is defined by the inclusion of Medio Tiempo leaf, a rare tobacco that grows only in the top two leaves of the plant and is sun-cured, giving it a distinct character. This leaf is used as a component in the filler, not just as a wrapper, which is unusual. The blend also uses Cuban Criollo 98 and Habano wrappers from Vuelta Abajo, with a mix of Seco, Volado, and Ligero leaves. The construction is meticulous, with each cigar rolled by the most skilled torcedores at El Laguito. The aging process is extended, with tobaccos aged for at least five years before rolling. The result is a range that maintains a consistent profile across vitolas, but with strength varying from medium-full to full, as seen in the Behike 52 versus the Behike 56.

Flavor Profile

Smokers consistently find a core of cedar and leather across the Behike range, with a distinctive white pepper spice on the retrohale. The Medio Tiempo leaf adds a layer of dark cocoa and dried fruit, often compared to raisins or figs. The Behike 52 opens with a creamy texture, evolving into notes of espresso and a subtle sweetness. The Behike 56, being fuller, delivers more intense dark chocolate and a peppery kick, with a longer finish. The Behike Lancero, with its smaller ring gauge, emphasizes the cedar and floral notes, while the Churchill offers a more rounded profile with hints of nuts and a gentle spice. Across the line, the strength varies from medium-full to full, but the flavor profile remains coherent, with the Medio Tiempo leaf providing a signature depth.

Best for Beginners

For a newcomer to Behike, the Behike 52 is the most accessible. It is a Salomones (tapered figurado) with a medium-full strength, priced around $50–$70 per cigar. Expect flavors of cedar, leather, and a hint of white pepper, with a smooth, creamy smoke. It burns for about 45–60 minutes, offering a manageable introduction to the line without overwhelming intensity.

Cohiba Behike Cigar Lineup

Explore 13 Cohiba Behike cigars in the AshMap encyclopedia:

  • BHK 52 — Salomones (tapered figurado), Medium-Full · $50–$70 per cigar (box of 10, retail ~$500–$650 depending on market and import duties)
  • BHK 54 — Toro, Medium-Full · $50–$80 per cigar (varies significantly by market; MSRP around $35–$45 in Cuban official channels, premium in secondary
  • BHK 56 — Gran Toro, Full · $80–$110 per cigar (LCDH and authorized retailers); secondary market often commands $120–$180+
  • Behike Belicoso — Belicoso, Medium-Full · $55–$80 per cigar (box prices vary significantly by market and import duties)
  • Behike Churchill — Churchill, Medium-Full · $80–$120 per cigar depending on market and black market premiums
  • Behike Corona — Corona, Medium-Full · $55–$75 per cigar
  • Behike Gran Corona — Gran Corona, Medium-Full · $80–$110 per cigar (secondary market often higher; official LCDH pricing varies by region)
  • Behike Gran Toro — Gran Toro, Medium-Full · $45–$65 per cigar (when available through authorized channels or LCDH; significantly higher on secondary market)
  • Behike Lancero — Lancero, Medium-Full · $80–$120 per cigar
  • Behike Lonsdale — Lonsdale, Medium-Full · $80–$120 per cigar depending on market and import duties
  • Behike Robusto — Robusto, Medium-Full · $45–$65 per cigar (MSRP; secondary market and duty-free pricing varies significantly)
  • Behike Toro — Toro, Medium-Full · $45–$65 per cigar (secondary/grey market pricing varies significantly; retail in Cuba/Europe $30–$50)
  • Behike Torpedo — Torpedo (Piramide), Medium-Full · $80–$110 per cigar (LCDH and authorized retailers); secondary market commands significantly more

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are Cohiba Behike cigars made?

Cohiba Behike cigars are made at the El Laguito factory in Havana, Cuba. This factory is the exclusive production site for all Cohiba cigars, including the Behike line.

What is Cohiba Behike known for?

Cohiba Behike is known for being the first Cuban cigar to incorporate the rare Medio Tiempo leaf in its filler, a tobacco that grows only in the top two leaves of the plant. It was also released as a limited edition in 2006 to celebrate Cohiba's 40th anniversary, with only 4,000 boxes produced.

Are Cohiba Behike cigars strong?

Cohiba Behike cigars range from medium-full to full strength. For example, the Behike 52 and 54 are medium-full, while the Behike 56 is full strength. The strength is balanced by the blend's complexity, making them approachable for experienced smokers.

What is the best Cohiba Behike cigar for beginners?

The Behike 52 is the best choice for beginners due to its medium-full strength and relatively lower price point. Its tapered figurado shape offers a gradual burn, and the flavors are less intense than the fuller Behike 56, making it easier to appreciate.

How much do Cohiba Behike cigars cost?

Prices vary widely by market and availability. In official Cuban channels, a Behike 54 may cost around $35–$45, but in the U.S. or other markets, prices can range from $50 to $120 per cigar. The Behike 56 often commands $80–$110 at authorized retailers, with secondary market prices exceeding $180.

What wrapper does Cohiba Behike use?

Cohiba Behike uses Cuban Criollo 98 and Cuban Habano wrappers from Vuelta Abajo, Pinar del Río. Some vitolas also incorporate a Medio Tiempo leaf as a wrapper or accent, which is a rare tobacco grown in the upper part of the plant.

Are Cohiba Behike cigars Cuban?

Yes, Cohiba Behike cigars are Cuban. They are produced at the El Laguito factory in Havana, Cuba, using tobaccos exclusively from the Vuelta Abajo region.

Where can I buy Cohiba Behike cigars?

Cohiba Behike cigars are available at La Casa del Habano (LCDH) stores worldwide, as well as authorized Habanos distributors. Due to their rarity and price, they are often sold in limited quantities. Be cautious of counterfeit products; always purchase from authorized retailers.