Cohiba Behike 56

The famed Cohiba Behike has gained legendary status among Cuban cigars. Released in small quantities in 2006 but not broadly to the public until 2010, the Behike had all the makings of an instant classic, including a placement at the top of Cigar Aficionado magazine's top 25 list of the same year for the Behike 52. The Behike 54 would go on to capture the number five spot on the magazine's list just a few years later.

What makes the Behike so special is the inclusion of a type of leaf in the filler blend called medio tiempo. Typically on a tobacco plant the leaf at the top is called ligero, and gets more sun exposure than the seco and volado leaf below it. However, on less than 10 percent of plants, there is a leaf that grows above the ligero - medio tiempo. It is very small and takes time and patience to fully ripen, and is also the reason why Behike cigars are so sought after - and priced higher than other Cubans.

With Cuban cigar shortages of late and Cuba having to go 'back to basics,' Behike cigars can be hard to find. But they are worth trying when available, as the medio tiempo adds a sweet pungency and rich flavour not found in other cigars. The smoker can expect some bold coffee, earthy, and leathery notes in its complex and refined flavour profile.

The Cohiba Behike 56 could be called a 'Toro Extra' size, with a burn time of nearly two hours.

Size: 6½  x 56