AshMap
Overview
The Cohiba Behike BHK 52 Corona is not merely a cigar; it is a benchmark, a singular achievement in Cuban cigar craftsmanship that has redefined the expectations of the luxury smoking experience since its introduction in 2010. Produced exclusively at the legendary El Laguito factory in Havana—the hallowed ground where Cohiba has been hand-rolled since 1966—the Behike line represents the pinnacle of Habanos S.A.’s portfolio. The BHK 52, the smallest of the three original vitolas, is a masterclass in balance: a Corona measuring 5.4 inches with a 52-ring gauge that feels substantial yet refined in the hand. Its true distinction lies in the inclusion of the medio tiempo leaf, the rarest priming from the very top of the Vuelta Abajo tobacco plant. Historically discarded or used sparingly in blends, this leaf is the secret heart of the Behike, providing a depth and vibrancy that no other Cohiba can claim. The wrapper, sourced from the Remedios region and finished in a warm chestnut Colorado hue, is silken and luminous, hinting at the complexity within. Every component—binder, filler, and wrapper—originates from Cuba’s premier Vuelta Abajo region, and each leaf undergoes a minimum of two years of aging before rolling, with the medio tiempo receiving additional conditioning to unlock its full potential. The result is a cigar that burns with razor-straight precision, a testament to the skill of El Laguito’s rollers, who are among the most accomplished in the world. The Behike line was launched as a limited production series, and production remains tightly controlled, ensuring that each box—with its distinctive sliding lid and presentation of individual aluminum tubes or cedar sleeves—feels like a treasure. The BHK 52 is the most accessible of the three vitolas by size but demands no less reverence. It is a cigar that commands attention without shouting, delivering a medium-full strength profile that builds gracefully from an elegant first third to a commanding finish. It is, without hyperbole, the most significant Cuban cigar release of the 21st century, a paragon that collectors and connoisseurs alike seek with passionate devotion.
Cigar Specifications
| Wrapper | Cuban Vuelta Abajo, Remedios region — medio tiempo leaf — Colorado |
|---|---|
| Binder | Cuban Vuelta Abajo |
| Filler | Cuban Vuelta Abajo long-leaf filler incorporating medio tiempo — the rarest priming from atop the tobacco plant, used ex |
| Country of Origin | El Laguito Factory, Havana, Cuba |
| Vitola / Shape | Corona |
| Size | 5.4 x 52 |
| Strength | Medium-Full |
| Price | $55–$75 per cigar |
| Tier | Prestige |
| Aging | All tobaccos aged a minimum of two years pre-rolling; medio tiempo leaves receive additional conditioning; post-producti |
Tasting Notes & Flavor Progression
First Third
The cold draw hints at dried flowers and polished cedar before the first light reveals a precise, clean combustion. Early flavors are elegant — refined white pepper on the retrohale, creamy cedar, and a subtle dark honey sweetness underpinned by the distinctive medio tiempo earthiness.
Second Third
Complexity deepens markedly. Roasted espresso and toasted almond emerge alongside leather and a mineral salinity that is a hallmark of genuine Vuelta Abajo tobacco. The medio tiempo contribution becomes unmistakable — a resonant, almost herbal richness that distinguishes this from any standard Cuban puro.
Final Third
The final third intensifies without becoming harsh. Dark chocolate and dried black fig come forward, with a prolonged finish of sweet cedar and a lingering spice that sits on the back palate. Strength builds to a commanding medium-full without sacrificing the elegance that defines this line.
Construction, Burn & Draw
Construction is impeccable — El Laguito rollers are among Cuba's most skilled, and the BHK 52 reflects that. The draw is open and effortless, the burn line razor-straight, and the ash holds firm in dense, pale grey columns well past an inch.
Pairing Recommendations
Spirit
Añejo rum — specifically Havana Club 15 Year Gran Reserva or Dictador 20 Year Colombian Rum; alternatively a well-aged Cognac such as Hennessy XO or Rémy Martin Louis XIII for a classic El Laguito pairing
Wine
A well-aged Rioja Gran Reserva — Vega Sicilia Único or López de Heredia Viña Tondonia — whose tobacco-driven terroir mirrors the cigar's character without overpowering it
Non-Alcoholic
A single-origin Cuban or Ethiopian Yirgacheffe pour-over coffee — medium roast to complement rather than compete with the cigar's inherent espresso and roasted nut notes
Who Should Smoke This?
The Cohiba Behike BHK 52 is for the seasoned enthusiast who has moved beyond the novice stage and seeks a definitive, benchmark experience. This is a cigar for those who appreciate nuance, patience, and the story behind every leaf. It rewards the smoker who can set aside 90 to 100 minutes for an unhurried session—perhaps during a milestone celebration, a quiet evening of reflection, or a private moment of contemplation. The experienced palate will detect the layered complexities of the medio tiempo leaf, the subtle mineral salinity of Vuelvo Abajo tobacco, and the restrained power that builds without overwhelming. This is not a cigar for a rushed lunch break or a casual gathering; it demands respect and focus. The BHK 52 is the ideal companion for the connoisseur who values craftsmanship and authenticity, and who understands that a great cigar is an event unto itself.
Bottom Line
The Cohiba Behike BHK 52 Corona is a nonpareil expression of Cuban cigar artistry—a rare, beautifully balanced smoke that justifies its prestige and price through flawless construction, unparalleled complexity from the medio tiempo leaf, and a finish that lingers with elegance. It is not just a cigar; it is a collector’s cornerstone and a benchmark for the modern era.
Similar Cigars
Explore all Cohiba Behike cigars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cohiba Behike BHK 52 Corona a strong cigar?
The Cohiba Behike BHK 52 Corona is classified as medium-full in strength, earning a 4 out of 5 on our intensity scale. It builds in power gradually from the first to the final third, delivering a commanding presence without harshness, and retains the elegance that defines the Behike line.
What does Cohiba Behike BHK 52 Corona taste like?
The flavor profile is complex and evolving. The first third offers refined white pepper, creamy cedar, and subtle dark honey sweetness with an earthy undertone from the medio tiempo leaf. The second deepens with roasted espresso, toasted almond, leather, and a hallmark mineral salinity. The final third brings dark chocolate, dried black fig, sweet cedar, and a lingering spice on the back palate.
How long does Cohiba Behike BHK 52 Corona take to smoke?
The BHK 52 Corona provides a smoking time of 90 to 100 minutes. It is designed for deliberate, unhurried enjoyment and should not be rushed.
What is the best pairing for Cohiba Behike BHK 52 Corona?
Ideal spirit pairings include Havana Club 15 Year Gran Reserva or Dictador 20 Year Colombian rum, or a well-aged Cognac such as Hennessy XO or Rémy Martin Louis XIII. For wine, a Rioja Gran Reserva like Vega Sicilia Único or López de Heredia Viña Tondonia mirrors the cigar’s tobacco terroir. A non-alcoholic option is a single-origin Cuban or Ethiopian Yirgacheffe pour-over coffee, medium roast.
Is Cohiba Behike BHK 52 Corona good for beginners?
No, the BHK 52 Corona is not recommended for beginners. Its medium-full strength, complexity, and price point make it best suited for experienced enthusiasts who can appreciate the nuanced contributions of the rare medio tiempo leaf and the craftsmanship of El Laguito rollers.
Where can I buy Cohiba Behike BHK 52 Corona?
Due to high counterfeiting rates, purchase only from authorized Habanos retailers or official La Casa del Habano locations. Always verify the holographic seal, box code, and band printing meticulously.
What is the price of Cohiba Behike BHK 52 Corona?
The price ranges from $55 to $75 per cigar, reflecting its prestige tier, rare medio tiempo leaf, and limited production controlled by Habanos S.A.
Is Cohiba Behike BHK 52 Corona worth aging?
Yes. All tobaccos are aged a minimum of two years pre-rolling, with the medio tiempo leaves receiving additional conditioning. Post-production aging can further harmonize and soften the profile, making it a worthy candidate for the collector’s humidor.
What wrapper does Cohiba Behike BHK 52 Corona use?
The wrapper is a Cuban Vuelta Abajo leaf from the Remedios region, classified as a Colorado wrapper. It presents a warm chestnut brown color with a silky texture and a restrained natural sheen.
Where is Cohiba Behike BHK 52 Corona made?
It is hand-rolled at the El Laguito factory in Havana, Cuba—the most prestigious factory in the country and the exclusive production site for Cohiba since 1966.