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Cohiba Behike 52: The Crown Jewel of Cuban Cigars
Jun
Few objects in the world of luxury command as much reverence as the Cohiba Behike 52. For aficionados, it is not simply a cigar it is a statement, a ritual, and a masterclass in Cuban tobacco craftsmanship rolled into one extraordinary smoke.
The Origins of the Behike Line
Cohiba introduced the Behike line in 2006 as a limited release to celebrate the brand’s 40th anniversary. The name pays homage to the Behike, the spiritual leaders of the Taíno people the indigenous inhabitants of Cuba a fitting tribute given the almost mythical status these cigars quickly achieved. The line was made permanent in 2010, offered in three vitolas: the BHK 52, BHK 54, and BHK 56, each named after their ring gauge.
What Makes the 52 Special
The Behike 52 is the smallest of the three vitolas, measuring 5.4 inches with a ring gauge of 52. Do not let its relatively modest size fool you. This cigar punches well above its weight in terms of complexity and refinement. It features a silky Ecuadorian wrapper, a rich Cuban seco binder, and a blend of Cuban ligero and seco filler leaves.
What truly sets the Behike apart from any other Cohiba and arguably any other cigar in the world is the inclusion of Medio Tiempo leaves. These rare leaves grow at the very top of the tobacco plant, above the traditional corona leaves, and are found on only a small percentage of plants. They deliver an unmatched concentration of oils and flavor that elevates the smoking experience to something genuinely singular.
The Smoking Experience
From the first draw, the Behike 52 opens with a creamy, smooth character. Notes of cedar, dark chocolate, leather, and subtle earthiness develop gradually across a burn that lasts roughly 90 minutes. The draw is effortless, the ash holds firm, and the burn line stays remarkably even hallmarks of elite hand-rolling from Cohiba’s most skilled torcedores.
Rarity and Value
Behike cigars are produced in strictly limited quantities, which keeps demand consistently high. A single Behike 52 typically retails between $50 and $80, with boxes commanding several hundred dollars and climbing significantly on the secondary market.
