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:
Cigar |
Size |
Price per Cigar (approx.) |
Strength |
Flavor Profile |
Construction |
Value |
Cohiba Behike BHK 56 |
6 1/2" x 56 |
£380 |
Full |
Rich cocoa, spice, dark chocolate |
Exceptional |
Excellent |
Montecristo No. 2 |
6 1/8" x 52 |
£30 |
Medium |
Creamy, nutty, mild spice |
Very good |
Very Good |
Trinidad Fundadores |
7 1/2" x 38 |
£68.70 per cigar |
Medium |
Floral, cedar, hint of pepper |
Excellent |
Excellent |
Partagas Serie D No. 4 |
4 7/8" x 50 |
£25 |
Medium-Full |
Earthy, peppery, leathery |
Good |
Good |
Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial |
5 1/2" x 50 |
£25 |
Medium |
Nutty, creamy, light spice |
Very good |
Very Good |
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.