Cohiba Behike BHK 56 Review: The Pinnacle of Cuban Craftsmanship

Brand: Cohiba
Line: Behike
Size: 6 1/2" x 56 (Double Robusto)
Wrapper: Cuban
Binder: Cuban
Filler: Cuban
Strength: Full
Price: £3,871 (Box of 10)

The Cohiba Behike BHK 56 is often revered as the pinnacle of Cuban cigars, and I have witnessed its blending refinement and potency in every puff. Whether for special occasions or luxurious everyday indulgence, the BHK 56 is the cigar I often come back to.

Look & Feel: 20/20

Holding the Cohiba Behike BHK 56 feels like pure elegance. The wrapper is a rich, oily mocha brown – smooth yet firm – exuding sophistication with minimal veins and a superbly tight roll. The iconic Cohiba band completes the presentation, setting a high standard before I even take the first puff.

Pre-Light: 18/20

The cold draw on this Cohiba is flawless, with a smooth, effortless pull that hints at the intricate flavors ahead. Aromas of dark cocoa, cedar, and a whisper of spice offer a prelude to its complex flavor profile. The pre-light experience alone hints at its quality, evoking the lush Cuban terroir.

Burn: 19/20

Once I light the cigar, it truly reveals its meticulous construction. The burn is razor-sharp, requiring minimal touch-ups, and I can enjoy a long, firm ash. It holds consistently well, allowing me to relax and embrace the smoke without frequent maintenance.

Flavor: 20/20

The BHK 56 provides a richly layered and evolving experience:

• First Third (0-30 minutes):
  A complex medley of flavors begins with creamy cedar, cocoa, and light coffee undertones. A hint of nutmeg spice weaves through each of my puffs, creating a luxurious, medium-bodied start. The retro-hale introduces subtle floral notes, enhancing the BHK 56's depth.
• Second Third (30-60 minutes):
  Flavors deepen as the body intensifies. Darker, earthier tones emerge, with leather, roasted coffee, and toasted almond taking center stage. The smoke becomes fuller, and a touch of black pepper on the finish brings a pleasant kick. Each draw is smooth yet robust, showcasing the cigar's refined character.
• Final Third (60-90 minutes):
  The finale is a crescendo of flavors. Sweetness reminiscent of caramelized nuts balances the spice and earthy tones, while a dark chocolate note lingers beautifully on the palate. The strength remains full-bodied, yet the smoke stays creamy and complex until the very end.

Overall Experience: 19/20

Cohiba Behike BHK 56 is a premium investment, but it delivers unparalleled quality and complexity. As one of the most celebrated cigars in the Cohiba line, it’s a worthy indulgence for enthusiasts who appreciate excellence in Cuban craftsmanship.

Comparative Analysis

Here’s how the BHK 56 stands among similarly prestigious Cuban cigars:

Pairings

For the best experience, i typically pair he BHK 56 with:

• Aged Single Malt Scotch: Complements the cigar’s smooth, rich flavors.
• Dark Chocolate: Enhances the cocoa notes in the smoke.
• Cognac: Brings out the cigar’s natural sweetness.

Final Thoughts

For me, the Cohiba Behike BHK 56 is nothing short of a masterpiece, earning a well-deserved 96/100. Its complexity, impeccable construction, and flawless flavor profile more than justify the premium price. 

This is the perfect cigar for celebratory moments or when I simply want to treat myself to Cuba’s finest craftsmanship. Every puff promises an unforgettable experience.

James Peasley

James started out in the cigar industry in 2009, working for the leading cigar specialist in the UK for nearly a decade, slowly crafting his deep knowledge of cigars and developing a very refined palate. There's not many Cuban cigars he hasn't tasted, including Limited Edition Habanos and pre-embargo Davidoffs, as well as a large section of the New World offerings. When away from his desk he's usually found out walking in the countryside, or following other hot pursuits.