The Grand Finale of the 25th Habanos Festival Celebrates 15 Years of Cohiba Behike

On March 1, 2025, the XXV Festival del Habano reached a spectacular conclusion with a gala event that honored the 15th anniversary of the esteemed Cohiba Behike line. Held at the Pabexpo Convention Center in Havana, the event attracted 1,400 guests who indulged in a night dedicated to luxury and the world of premium cigars.

The gala evening was a transcendent experience filled with elegance and sophistication. Attendees enjoyed an exquisite culinary journey paired with high-end spirits, alongside an artistic show that elevated the sensorial pleasures of the night. A highlight was the global premiere of the Cohiba Behike 58, a new majestic offering that adds to the prestigious line, which also includes BHK 52, BHK 54, and BHK 56. The Behike line has been renowned since its inception in 2010, known for being the pinnacle of premium tobacco.

This 15th anniversary celebration introduced a redefined, sleek design and premium packaging for the Behike line, incorporating innovative security measures, including NFC technology and unique identification codes, ensuring authenticity and making these cigars a coveted item among enthusiasts. Each cigar is handcrafted from the finest tobacco leaves sourced from renowned plantations in Vuelta Abajo, Pinar del Río, Cuba, and delivers a bold strength and distinctive complexity, embodying true luxury.

Furthermore, to commemorate the anniversary, an exclusive anniversary pack was launched, featuring all four vitolas of the Behike line. During the gala, Habanos, S.A. co-presidents Maritza Carrillo González and Luis Sánchez-Harguindey Pardo de Vera addressed the audience, emphasizing the legacy of the Behike line and its significant influence on the premium tobacco market. They extended heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in the production chain, from the dedicated farmers to the skilled torcedores, who transform raw materials into authentic works of art.

The evening also witnessed the presentation of the Habanos Awards 2024, recognizing influential figures in the cigar industry. Alain Proietto received the award in the Business category; Aleksandar Stipcic was honored in the Communication category; and Reynier Lázaro won for Production. Additionally, Brisael Perdomo Lazcano from La Corona factory was crowned the Grand Torcedor 2025, while Matthew Edward Castillo and Alexei Vladimir Sleur triumphed in the Habanos World Challenge.

One of the most exhilarating moments of the night was the traditional Humidor Auction, with proceeds supporting the Cuban Public Health System. This year featured seven exclusive humidors representing the global brands under Habanos, including Cohiba, Montecristo, Romeo y Julieta, and others, including a special commemorative humidor for the 15th anniversary of the Behike line. The auction also showcased surprise humidors dedicated to brands celebrating anniversaries in 2025, further amplifying the excitement. This year's auction raised an impressive total of €16,410,000.

Moreover, the winning bidders of the auctioned humidors gain access to the Habanos Private Selection program, an elite experience for connoisseurs, allowing them to interact with some of the most prestigious vitolas and customize specific attributes of their exclusive pieces, along with receiving a premium customizable humidor.

Throughout the evening, entertainment took center stage, with a unique lineup of international artists. The night featured performances by renowned figures such as the Manolito Simonet Orchestra, Susana Pous, and Earth, Wind & Fire, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that enthralled all present.

In summary, this gala event not only marked a significant milestone for Cohiba Behike but also reinforced its standing as a symbol of luxury in the tobacco industry. The combined efforts of artistry, tradition, and innovation ensured a memorable celebration that underscores the charm and sophistication of the world of Habanos cigars.