Cohiba Behike BHK 52: The Pinnacle of Cuban Craftsmanship
A rare blend featuring medio tiempo leaves — the rarest tobacco in the world
Score Breakdown
The Behike is not merely a cigar — it is a declaration. Rolled exclusively at El Laguito in Havana using the elusive medio tiempo leaf, this smoke demands your full attention and rewards it generously.
The Cohiba Behike BHK 52 represents the absolute zenith of what Cuban tobacco can achieve. Launched in 2010 to commemorate Cohiba's 45th anniversary, the Behike line remains one of the most coveted and difficult-to-obtain cigars in the world.
Construction & Appearance
The wrapper is a flawless Colorado Maduro — deep chocolate brown with a subtle oily sheen that catches the light beautifully. The triple cap is applied with surgical precision, and the cigar feels dense and perfectly packed from head to foot. At 52 ring gauge and 5.4 inches, the BHK 52 sits comfortably in the hand.
The Draw & Burn
After a straight cut, the cold draw reveals notes of dark chocolate, dried cherry, and a whisper of barnyard earthiness. The first third opens with a creamy, medium-full smoke that coats the palate with cocoa and leather. The burn is razor-straight from the first light.
Flavor Profile
The second third is where the medio tiempo leaf announces itself — a complex, almost electric spice emerges, layered beneath the continuing chocolate and leather base. Notes of espresso, cedar, and a distant sweetness reminiscent of dark honey develop as the ash holds firm past the one-inch mark.
The final third intensifies beautifully. The spice mellows into a warm, peppery finish, and the cocoa deepens into something approaching bittersweet dark chocolate. The retrohale delivers a stunning cedar and cream combination.
Score: 97/100
The Behike BHK 52 is a once-in-a-lifetime smoke — not because it is unattainable (though it nearly is), but because the experience it delivers is genuinely singular. Budget at least 90 minutes and pair with a 12-year Scotch.
Tasting Notes
First Third
The opening third is immediately commanding. A creamy, medium-full smoke coats the palate with cocoa and leather. The burn is razor-straight from the first light, and the ash holds firm with a beautiful salt-and-pepper appearance.
Second Third
This is where the medio tiempo leaf announces itself — a complex, almost electric spice emerges, layered beneath the continuing chocolate and leather base. Notes of espresso and a distant sweetness reminiscent of dark honey develop as the ash holds past the one-inch mark.
Final Third
The final third intensifies beautifully. The spice mellows into a warm, peppery finish, and the cocoa deepens into something approaching bittersweet dark chocolate. The retrohale delivers a stunning cedar and cream combination that lingers for minutes.
Pairing Recommendations
Macallan 18 Year Sherry Oak
The sherry-cask sweetness and dried fruit of the Macallan mirror the Behike's dark honey and cherry notes perfectly.
Rémy Martin XO Cognac
The brandy's dried fruit, spice, and oak complement the Behike's complexity without competing with it.
Espresso (no sugar)
A pure espresso amplifies the cigar's coffee notes and provides a palate-cleansing contrast between puffs.
Final Verdict
The Cohiba Behike BHK 52 is the finest cigar Cuba has ever produced. It is not merely a great smoke — it is a cultural artifact, a testament to what human craft and extraordinary raw materials can achieve together. If you ever encounter one at a reasonable price, buy it without hesitation.
Expert Pro Tip
Allow the Behike to rest at 65% RH for at least 30 days before smoking. The medio tiempo leaf benefits enormously from additional aging. Smoke it in the late evening, after dinner, with nothing to rush you.
Buying Guide
The Behike BHK 52 retails for $55–$80 per stick at authorized dealers. Beware of counterfeits — always purchase from reputable retailers. The box should have a Cuban hologram seal and the distinctive Cohiba yellow band with the Behike sub-band below it.
Reviewed By
Marcus Ashford
Founder & Lead Reviewer
Marcus has been reviewing premium cigars for over 15 years. A former tobacco importer with deep connections in Cuba, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic, he brings unparalleled expertise to every review. He has personally visited over 40 tobacco farms and rolling factories across the Americas.
Recommended Products
Savoy by Famous Smoke Desktop Humidor
Spanish cedar-lined desktop humidor. The Behike deserves proper storage — this 50-cigar humidor is the ideal home for your collection.
Xikar Xi2 Cigar Cutter
The gold standard in cigar cutters. The Behike's triple cap demands a precise, clean cut — the Xi2 delivers every time.
S.T. Dupont Ligne 2 Lighter
The iconic French lighter beloved by aficionados worldwide. A cigar of this caliber deserves a lighter that matches its prestige.
