The Mystery of the Cohiba Behike Cigar
The Cohiba Behike is considered by many to be the Holy Grail of cigars. With its reputation as one of the rarest and most expensive cigars in the world, the Cohiba Behike has captured the imagination of cigar aficionados since its first introduction. But what makes this cigar so special, and why is it shrouded in so much mystery? This article explores the history, rarity, and legendary aura of the Cohiba Behike.
1. The Origins of the Cohiba Behike The Cohiba Behike was first introduced in 2006 by the Cohiba brand, during the Habano Festival in Cuba, to celebrate the brand's 40th anniversary. The name "Behike" refers to a spiritual leader of the Taíno tribes, the original inhabitants of Cuba. This connection to the island's indigenous roots gives the cigar a deep cultural and historical significance, adding to its mystery.
The original Behike was an extremely limited cigar, with only 100 boxes of 40 cigars produced. Each cigar was handcrafted by a single renowned torcedor (cigar roller), adding to its rarity and prestige. Cigar enthusiasts around the world rushed to acquire these precious cigars, quickly turning them into collector's items.
2. The Rarity of the Cohiba Behike One of the reasons the Cohiba Behike is so coveted is its rarity. Even after the initial production, Behikes continue to be produced in extremely limited quantities each year. The complexity of the manufacturing process, combined with the exceptional quality of the tobacco leaves used, makes each Behike a one-of-a-kind cigar.
The rarity of the Behike is also enhanced by the use of the medio tiempo , a rare tobacco leaf that grows at the very top of the plant and is only used for the most exclusive cigars. This type of leaf gives the Behike its rich and complex aromas, which are both intense and balanced, a rare combination that makes it a treasure for cigar lovers.
3. Price and Symbolic Value Due to its rarity and exceptional quality, the Cohiba Behike is one of the most expensive cigars on the market. A single cigar can cost several hundred dollars, and complete boxes easily reach astronomical prices at auctions. But for those who have experienced it, the price is justified by the uniqueness of the tasting.
Beyond its monetary value, the Behike has become a symbol of status and luxury. Smoking a Behike is often reserved for very special occasions, and those who own one feel privileged to be part of a select circle of cigar elites.
4. Legends and Mysteries Surrounding the Behike The Cohiba Behike is surrounded by many legends and mysteries. Some say that only the highest Cuban dignitaries have access to the rarest Behikes, while others speak of secret collections hidden in private cellars. These stories, whether true or exaggerated, only add to the mystical aura of the Behike.
There are also rumors about the secret growing and fermentation techniques used to produce the tobacco leaves for the Behikes. The exact details of these methods are kept under strict guard, fueling speculation and stories surrounding this legendary cigar.
5. The Cohiba Behike Today Today, the Cohiba Behike continues to be produced in small quantities, each cigar the result of exceptional craftsmanship and a tradition that is passed down from generation to generation. For cigar lovers, smoking a Behike is not only a taste experience, it is a journey into the history and culture of Cuba.
Despite its rarity, or perhaps because of it, the Behike remains one of the most sought-after cigars in the world. Each year, new editions of the Behike generate excitement and anticipation, with cigar lovers willing to pay top dollar for the chance to enjoy this jewel of Cuban tobacco.
The Cohiba Behike is more than just a cigar; it is a symbol of luxury, rarity, and artisanal perfection. Its history, rarity, and the aura of mystery that surrounds it make it an object of desire for cigar lovers around the world. To own or smoke a Behike is to participate in a tradition that transcends time and space, connecting each enthusiast to the very essence of the art of the Cuban cigar.