Cohiba Behike — Heritage & History

Cohiba Behike was introduced in 2010 as the ultra-premium extension of the Cohiba brand, which itself was founded in 1966 for diplomatic gifts and later released commercially in 1982. The Behike line is named after the Taíno term for the tribal chief or shaman (behique) and is produced exclusively at the El Laguito factory in Havana, Cuba. It was the first Cohiba to incorporate the rare *medio tiempo* leaf — a small, highly concentrated leaf from the top of the tobacco plant that is typically removed during cultivation. Only a limited number of plants yield usable *medio tiempo*, making the Behike line exceptionally scarce. The original BHK 52, 54, and 56 were launched in 2010, with additional vitolas added in later years, though exact production figures and release schedules remain closely guarded by Habanos S.A. The Behike is widely regarded as the pinnacle of Cuban cigar craftsmanship and a benchmark for luxury in the premium cigar world.

Blending Philosophy

Cohiba Behike’s blending philosophy centers on the exclusive use of the *medio tiempo* leaf — a rare, sun-grown leaf from the upper primings of the tobacco plant that imparts heightened intensity, complexity, and a creamy texture. This leaf is blended with Vuelta Abajo fillers and binders from the San Luis and San Juan growing zones, and typically a double binder is used for construction. The result is a cigar that balances power with elegance, offering layered notes of cedar, cocoa, earth, and spice without harshness. Behike’s distinctiveness lies in its scarcity and its refusal to compromise: every component is selected for depth, richness, and a seamless, slow-burning performance that rewards the patient smoker.

Flavor Profile

Across the Behike range, the signature flavor character is a refined, medium-to-full-bodied profile built on a foundation of Cuban earth, toasted cedar, and dark cocoa. The *medio tiempo* leaf introduces a distinctive creamy, almost oily texture with notes of espresso, leather, and dried fruit, often accented by white pepper and a subtle floral sweetness. As the cigar progresses, flavors deepen toward roasted nuts, baking spices, and a lingering, slightly sweet finish. In fuller vitolas like the BHK 56, a more pronounced black pepper and dark chocolate intensity emerges, while the slimmer forms (e.g., BHK 52) offer a brighter, more spice-forward experience. The balance across the range is consistently smooth, with no single note dominating.

Best for Beginners

For a newcomer to premium cigars, the Behike Robusto is the most approachable entry point. Its 4 7/8-inch length and 52-ring-gauge format offers a manageable 45–60 minute smoke. The medium-full body is tempered by creamy *medio tiempo* notes of cedar, cocoa, and mild spice, providing a refined but not overwhelming introduction to the brand’s complexity and craftsmanship. It also tends to be the most consistently available Behike vitola at a relatively lower price point.

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 hand-rolled at the El Laguito factory in Havana, Cuba, under the strict supervision of Habanos S.A. All tobaccos used in Behike are grown in the Vuelta Abajo region of Pinar del Río, Cuba.

What is Cohiba Behike known for?

Cohiba Behike is known for being the most exclusive and expensive regular-production Cuban cigar. Its hallmark is the inclusion of the rare *medio tiempo* leaf, which gives the blend heightened complexity, creaminess, and intensity. The line is also recognized for its meticulous construction and scarcity.

Are Cohiba Behike cigars strong?

Behike cigars are generally classified as medium-full to full in strength, depending on the vitola. The strength is well-integrated and smooth, not harsh, due to the aging and blending of the *medio tiempo* leaf. Fuller-bodied vitolas like the BHK 56 can be quite powerful, while smaller formats like the Behike Corona are more moderate.

What is the best Cohiba Behike cigar for beginners?

The Behike Robusto is the most recommended for beginners. It offers a balanced medium-full profile with creamy notes of cedar and cocoa, a manageable smoking time, and a price point that, while still high, is lower than larger vitolas. Its 52-ring gauge provides a comfortable draw without being overwhelming.

How much do Cohiba Behike cigars cost?

Prices vary dramatically by market and distribution channel. Official MSRP in Cuban LCDH stores and authorized European retailers ranges from approximately $30 to $110 per cigar, depending on the vitola. On the secondary and grey markets, prices often double or triple, with rare sizes exceeding $180 per cigar.

What wrapper does Cohiba Behike use?

Behike cigars use a Cuban wrapper, typically from the *Criollo 98* seed variety grown in the Vuelta Abajo region. The signature element is a *medio tiempo* leaf, a rare, thick, oily wrapper from the top of the plant, which is used as a binder or wrapper accent in some vitolas. Not all Behike cigars use *medio tiempo* as the sole wrapper; it is primarily a filler component.

Are Cohiba Behike cigars Cuban?

Yes, Cohiba Behike cigars are Cuban. They are a product of Habanos S.A., the Cuban state-owned tobacco company, and are rolled exclusively in Cuba. There are no non-Cuban versions of Cohiba Behike; the name is reserved for this specific Cuban line.

Where can I buy Cohiba Behike cigars?

Authorized purchasing channels include La Casa del Habano (LCDH) stores worldwide, official Habanos Specialists, and select duty-free shops in international airports. Online purchases from reputable, verified retailers that ship from Cuba or Europe may be possible, but buyers should be cautious of counterfeits. Secondary market auctions and private sales also exist but carry significant authenticity and price risks.