Cohiba Behike and Cohiba 55 Aniversario are two distinctive releases associated with the premium Cuban cigar market. Both are known for their exclusive positioning, carefully selected tobacco, and connection to Cohiba's history. However, they differ in their product identity, size, tobacco blend, and significance within the brand's collection.

Understanding these differences provides useful context for anyone researching premium cigars or comparing Cohiba's notable releases.

What Is Cohiba Behike?

Cohiba Behike is a dedicated cigar line introduced in 2010. Its defining feature is the inclusion of medio tiempo tobacco leaves, which are rare leaves that develop at the upper levels of certain tobacco plants.

The original collection includes three sizes: BHK 52, BHK 54, and BHK 56. Their numbers correspond to their ring gauges, measured in units of 1/64 of an inch.

The three formats differ in length and thickness, giving the collection a range of proportions. Behike is particularly recognised for its specialised tobacco blend and premium positioning within the Habanos portfolio.

What Is Cohiba 55 Aniversario?

Cohiba 55 Aniversario was introduced as a limited-edition release celebrating the brand's 55th anniversary in 2021. The cigar commemorates Cohiba's establishment in 1966 and was produced as a special release rather than a permanent core collection.

The 55 Aniversario measures approximately 150 mm in length, with a ring gauge of 57. It uses the Victoria format, which was introduced to the Cohiba range for this release.

The cigar features carefully selected tobacco from Cuba's Vuelta Abajo region and was presented in boxes of ten. Its distinctive presentation and anniversary significance set it apart from the regular Behike collection.

Key Differences in Size and Format

The original Behike range offers three sizes, from the BHK 52 to the larger BHK 56. The 55 Aniversario has one specific format, measuring 150 mm by a ring gauge of 57.

This makes the 55 Aniversario thicker than all three original Behike sizes. Its length falls between the BHK 54 and BHK 56, giving it a different overall shape.

Flavour and Tobacco Characteristics

Both releases use carefully selected Cuban tobacco, but their identities differ. Behike is particularly associated with medio tiempo leaves, while the 55 Aniversario is distinguished by its anniversary-specific blend and additional tobacco ageing.

Flavour descriptions can include earthy, woody, roasted, spicy, and subtly sweet notes, although the exact experience varies between products and individual cigars. It is best to consult product-specific information rather than assume the two releases taste identical.

Which Makes the Bigger Impression?

The main distinction is that Behike is an established cigar line, while the 55 Aniversario is a commemorative limited edition. Behike offers three original sizes and a defining tobacco feature; the 55 Aniversario stands out through its unique format and historical significance.

Both are premium tobacco products, and neither is risk-free. Cigar smoking exposes users to nicotine and harmful chemicals associated with cancer and cardiovascular disease.