Headley Grange
Initial Thoughts
Headley Grange is the sophomore release from the guys over at Crowned Heads. Their first release Four Kicks floored most of the cigar community and set an incredibly high standard for them to follow. The inspiration for this new blend came from the drum beat from the Led Zeppelin classic tune “When the Levee Breaks”. Jon Huber said he wished they could blend a cigar that tasted like the first six seconds of “When the Levee Breaks” the heavy ominous sound created from the drums.Β He told me about the conversation he had with E.P. Carrillo to describe what he wanted the blend to taste like. He said “Ernie was on the phone, so I put him on speaker phone here in the office and I had ‘When the Levee Breaks’ cued up and I started playing it for him, I told him I want the cigar to taste like this sounds!”Β So thats great and all, but where does the nameΒ Headley Grange come from? Well its the name of the house where Led Zeppelin recorded this song, along with quite a few other albums.
Unfortunately this cigar isn’t for sale to the general public yet. Luckily, for me I work right across the street from Crowned Heads headquarters. I emailed Jon and asked him if I could come over and get the down and dirty aboutΒ Headley Grange before the big convention show next week. He was incrediblyΒ accommodating, he said he could squeeze me in for about 20 mins between calls to his retailers. So we set up a time and I headed over there. I ended up staying for almost 45 minutes just talking about cigars. Jon is one of the most passionate people I’ve ever met, and I think that passion just oozes out of the cigars that they make. I took my notebook to try and take detailed notes about the cigar, but honestly Jon talked so fast and so passionately it was all I could do keep up listening to him. So if I get any of the facts wrong, hopefully he’ll correct me!
On my way out Jon gave me a 4 pack sampler ofΒ Headley Grange to smoke for this review. He also gave me a HG hat and four brand new stickers that had just arrived that day. He literally opened the box on my way out and gave me the first stickers out of the box. These guys are incredibly generous and passionate about their brand. Hopefully I can do it justice in this review, so lets get into it!
Looks
As you probably know by I’m a huge fan of great packaging. The problem is I got these cigars as pre-release samples so they don’t have any bands on them. However, last week Jon tweeted pictures of the final packing forΒ Headley Grange I have to say the pictures look good, but they don’t do the box justice from what I saw in person.
They wanted to stay with a more traditional packaging style for this release. The box is the classic cuban style box with thin wood wrapped in a printed paper lining (I can’t remember what Jon called it, once again, couldn’t write fast enough). The crest on the box is absolutely gorgeous, like I said the pictures don’t do it justice. Laced with gold and hints of purple and green it’s a very classic looking crest that is imprinted on the box. In the middle of the crest you’ll see the letters H and G in the top right there is a tobacco leaf and the bottom left is a picture of the house known as Headley Grange. Pretty freaking cool right? Then making up the bottom edge of the crest are gold medallions it’s hard to make out what is in each medallion, but I can definitely see the Crowned Heads logo. The rest you’ll just have to see when you buy a box.
The band on the Headley Grange isΒ classic and subtle, yet when you look at it you think ok, “Am I about to get my ass kicked?” The black background gives a look of dominance and power and then the words Headley Grange really pop off the band. It’s not a traditional font used for cigar bands, but it looks perfect. Honestly when I look at it I instantly think of someone riding a motorcycle, it’s looks calm and collected, but at any second it could pop out and kick you in the teeth. Take that for what’s worth, I don’t have any other way to describe it.
Looking at the wrapper on this cigar there is only one word that comes to mind, Rustic. It’s a semi-light brown that has perfect coloring all the way down. It’s an Ecuadorian Sumatra it has a few small veins in it, but nothing that really should affect the smoke of it. Sometimes when I’m looking at a cigar I want a nice oily wrapper that just glistens. However based on the inspiration of this cigar, an oily wrapper wouldn’t have been the way to go. To really hone in on what the guys from CH wanted for the Headley Grange line, they needed a gritty rustic wrapper and thats exactly what they went out and got.
Function
This cigar is shaped a little differently than most, its not quite a box press, its a little more rounded than that. Jon called it a ‘trunk press’. I didn’t have to do my typical ‘pinch test’ on the samples I got. Jon made sure to test them out when he pulled them out of the package for me. He made sure to give me great cigars.
The filler on theΒ Headley Grange feels firm and packed in there really well, but it’s an incredibly light cigar. Because of the trunk press it sits in your hand really well and very comfortable to hold on to. The construction on this cigar looks absolutely flawless. It has a perfectly placed triple cap on the head. No soft spots whatsoever.
I brought out the ole V cutter for this cigar. I took a nice wedge out of the head to test the cold draw and WOW. The draw was perfect, very little resistance and I could just pull air right down the barrel and pick up little hints of flavor all the way down. This might be the best draw that I’ve ever had on a cigar. I seriously sat there for a couple minutes cold drawing on the cigar it was so good! Ok ok I know, you want to know how it smokes.
Smoking
I think I like to stick with one lighting technique for a few weeks then find a new one. I’m still on the kick with my new Xikar lighter so that’s what I chose to light up theΒ Headley Grange. I made sure to toast the foot really well to get this stick off and going. The first drag off of this stick was incredible. It’s like the first time that a chubby kid discovers Oreo cheesecake, it’s somewhat magical. As a chubby kid that remembers his first bite of Oreo cheesecake I can make this reference, you might have to search for something else that’s magical for you to understand what I’m talking about. Go think about unicorns or some crap like that… Anyway back to the cigar.
Smoking the first third of this stick just flew by, the next thing I knew I was holding a 2″ ash off this stick. Are you kidding me? I’ve never seen an ash this long except for those Nub ads in cigar magazines. I was blown away. This cigar was smoking perfectly, the draw was absolutely incredible. I just sat there and enjoyed this cigar so much that it made it difficult to remember to actually review it for you guys.
I was afraid this might not last. I thought I would surely hit a snag along the way with this smoke.Β All good things have to come to an end right? Well this good thing took me all the down to the nub, where I almost burnt my fingers. By the way, I think I’m going to file a Worker’s Comp claim for almost burning my fingers, is that possible? I wonder how I go about that…
The construction and the draw on theΒ Headley Grange are phenomenal, in fact they are perfect 10/10 for this cigar on how it smokes. Steady even burn all the way down, held the longest ash I’ve ever had. Fan-freaking-tastic thats all I can say about it.
Flavor
So after all this talk about wanting the blend to taste like the drum beat sounds. Does Headley GrangeΒ live up to that? You beat your ass it does! (Sorry for all the cursing by the way, but I really love this cigar and it gets me pumped up). Jon said he wanted something big and bold with this blend something that had some balls to it. Personally I think their slogan should be “If Chuck Norris smoked a cigar it would be a Headley Grange”, but thats just me thats probably why I don’t work in a big marketing agency.
This cigar hits you right out of the gate, it just starts attacking your taste buds like its tap dancing all over them. I picked up spice, woodsy notes, a very strong tobacco flavor ( it is a cigar after all). So many complexities with this cigar its hard to pick them all out. The whole first third is laying a solid foundation like its building up to something. I can’t help but parallel it to the song that inspired the blend. I just have to bob my head along to it while I’m smoking.
Headley Grange really hits it stride on the second third. It’s like an eruption, all of a sudden you’re rushed with flavor and strength. The Β complexities and the same flavors are there but it seems like there are more of them! The tobacco notes have really picked up and are just hitting you right in the face, but it feels so good.
The final third brings you back down again from all the intensity into a nice soothing calm similar to the first third and just lets you fade out and enjoy it down to the nub. The blend is incredibly consistent all the way through. I don’t know how in the hell they deliver that intensity in the middle without bring out more spice, but they did. I’m still floored by this cigar as I’m writing this review.
I would describe Headley GrangeΒ as medium-full bodied cigar. It starts out very medium and then builds into a very full bodied cigar and then fades back out in a medium body. The flavor profile on this cigar is outstanding they’ve mixed a lot of different flavor notes into one fantastic blend that takes you on a ride throughout the entire stick. I can tell you right now, this is the best cigar I’ve ever smoked.
Would I Buy It Again?
It may be the only cigar that I ever smoke again, ok thats not true, but yes I would buy it every chance I can!
Is It an Every Day Smoke?
If I could, I would smoke one of these everyday. It’s that good!
Would I Buy a Box?
I plan on it! This may be the first box that I actually buy of the same cigar. I’ve purchased mix and match cigar boxes before, but I think I may have to buy a box of these for myself.
Conclusion
Typically I smoke one cigar for my reviews to get a first time impression, but I smoked three cigars for this review, not because I felt like I needed a more robust review, but because I literally didn’t want to put these cigars down! I’ve only been smoking for close to 7 years, but I can honestly say that theΒ Headley Grange is the best cigar that I’ve ever smoked!
Jeremy Ellis
Great review! Can’t wait to win a box!
Eric Scism
Good luck to you sir!
Frankie
Awesome review, chief! And for anyone else reading these comments…the stick IS really that good! BUY A BOX! And also, I’ll be looking forward to winning a box.Β
ngmcs8203
If I don’t win I’ll be buying some 5-packs!
Eric Scism
It would be money well spent!
Eric Scism
Thanks Frankie! I know you’ve had one and you loved this cigar! Good Luck on the contest
Jeremy Ellis
Eff off Frankie, that box has my name all over it
weagleweagle
Love the review! Would love to try one myself, even if I don’t win the box. Let me know on Reddit when they start selling / shipping to the general public!
Eric Scism
Will do weagle! These things are gonna fly off shelves at the B&M!
Jyow617
I will be smoking the only one of these I have tonight. I am a huge fan of crowned heads and would love to win a box of these! Win or lose, you are a saint for doing this!
Eric Scism
Haha I don’t know about a Saint, but I am a huge fan. I can’t talk about this cigar enough π
Matt Rosenthal
You have talked this cigar up enough, and I’ve heard enough about it, that I am dying to try it.Β How can I bribe you to win?! π
Eric Scism
Haha Matt, you can bribe me by saying you’ll just give me the box back? … Wait I can’t say that here others will see it π
Nik
I’ve been enjoying the Four Kicks. I’d really love a box of these.
Eric Scism
Best of luck to you Nik! Four Kicks is a great stick! I didn’t think they could top it, but for me they did!
Ryne Higgins
Β I would love to have a box of these. Here is to winning π
Eric Scism
Haha Good luck Ryne π
Pbrstgng
I am a little nervous. Β I have already burned through several boxes of Four Kicks and now they are going to tempt me with these beauties.
Eric Scism
Oh man if you loved Four Kicks I have a feeling your world is about to get rocked with these!Β
Bobatt
Great review, thanks!
Eric Scism
Thanks for stopping in and saying hi!
RobbyRasReviews
Sounds like a gem!Β Nice work Eric… I haven’t had a chance to get my hands on any of these yet, but I’ll be on the look out for sure!Β GREAT contest btw…
Eric Scism
Robby I have a feeling you’d love these! Thanks for all your help promoting this contest!
Conor McCarthy
This looks like a real winner! Haven’t been able to get any of these out here in the sea of humanity that is Omaha. Might get lucky and finally get some now!
Β
Eric Scism
Haha well they haven’t been released yet, but in August maybe they’ll find their way out there π
Corey Zerbe
I gotta say the boys a CH are an amazing group and I have been lucky enough to sample this new Blend and its the bomb, I fired up my first one on my 33rd Birthday and it was my gift to myself.Β Great stick great guys great brands
Eric Scism
Corey then you know exactly what I’m talking about! The blend is absolutely incredible!
jon siddle
Excellent in-depth review. Looking forward to trying one.
Eric Scism
Thanks Jon! They should be released in Aug to retailers keep an eye out!
ptyler
Sounds like a must try!Β Thanks for the contest!
Eric Scism
It is a must try! Good luck and thanks for stopping in!
ptyler
Β And love the flavor wheel…neat idea…great visual enhancer for cigar reviews.
Kdavis
Great review. I feel like I know Jon personally after reading this (even though I don’t). I am so stoked to try this one. Keep up the good work!
Eric Scism
Thanks Kdavis, Jon is a hell of a guy. I wish everyone could know him!
cmorrow
If this is better than the four kicks, I better buy another humidor…
Eric Scism
Haha well better start saving up π
007MI6
Nice job man! Good review, good cigar and some swag! That’s why I visit this site daily. Can’t to try this, and since I have yet to find Crowned Heads locally, hopefully I can win this SWEET deal and have a stash to relax with. Win or not, thanks for this opportunity and all you do. π
Eric Scism
Thanks Jerad! I’m glad you’re a loyal visitor maybe we’ll have to try and figure out a way to get you some Four Kicks if you don’t win! π
007MI6
That would rock! Been looking for those Four Kicks since I found this site, but alas, nowhere to be found. And to add to my troubles, the last three cigar shops in my area that I drove to with high hopes have gone out of business. π So my options are limited. I would appreciate the assist! π
Jeff Todd
Great review and thanks for the contest! Β I am looking forward to trying both Four Kicks and Headley Grange.
Eric Scism
Thanks Jeff! You should def try Four Kicks if you can find them!Β
Crinc4
Sounds fantastic
Al Montalvo
Well that had to be the most enthusiastic review i ever read and being an avid cigar lover it really sold me if i ca ‘t win this box then i hope i will be able to find it i a local tobacanist or online thank you
Eric Scism
Thanks Al, I was incredibly enthusiastic when I wrote, I love this cigar hopefully you’ll enjoy as much as I did!
Deronjrolla
Heard about these on Saints and Sinners. Sounds like I need to try them out….
Crinc4
Sounds Fantastic
Crinc4
Double post sorry
Eric Scism
Haha no worries! I’m keeping a spreadsheet so you’ll only get one entry for this π Thanks for stopping by and commenting though!
Erin L
Great review…detailed and engaging. Makes me reorder my cigar purchasing priorities! Thank you!
Eric Scism
I would put this at the top of your purchasing priorities honestly. The box is going to attract a lot of eyes in the humi and the taste is gonna keep bringin em back. Just my $.02 π
@mdamore4
That has got to be the most glowing review I’ve ever read – of anything, not just cigars! Cannot wait to get my hands on these sticks!
Eric Scism
Wow. what a glowing review about a glowing review! Thank I appreciate the compliment I try to bring happiness to readers minds while they are thinking about cigars.
irratebass
Man this review made my mouth water!!!!! Entered all 4 ways!!!! Whoo Hoo!!
Eric Scism
I think you’ve got a leg up on the competition mainly b/c of your sweet mohawkΒ
Leo_Botl
Fourkicks was one of the best gars I smoked last year, Im looking forward to these.
Eric Scism
I think you’re in for a treat sir!
Scott
Great review! It sounds like these sticks are right up my alley.Β
Eric Scism
If you like awesome cigars they are definitely up your alley π
Jeremywscott
Awesome review. With all I’ve read about this cigar I’m already planning on buying a box as soon as they hit the shelves.
Eric Scism
I know the Crowned Heads guys will be glad to hear that!
Josh mccoy
Great review. The four kicks is an awesome smoke, can’t wait to try the HG
Eric Scism
Yeah man It’s a great follow up stick for sure!
irratebass
My entry is already in, but I just wanted to add….I loved this quote:
“Itβs like the first time that a chubby kid discovers Oreo cheesecake”
Great review (wish all reviews were this fun to read) and thanks for the contest.
Eric Scism
haha i’m glad you liked that! Thats honestly how I felt. It even prompted me to get cheesecake as a lunch dessert today π
Jake
The Four Kicks were amazing. I can’t wait to try these!
Eric Scism
Jake I think you’ll like these! Such a good blend!
Mitchell Bonner
Looking forward to it.
Eric Scism
I dont think you’ll be disappointed!
Jacob Barrett
Dude, nice review. I’m super stoked on everything these guys are doing and having gotten to try one already as you well know, I wasn’t disappointed at all. Hope you enjoy the rest. Don’t be a sucker and give them out, I did and now I’m sad-face-clown all over the place.
Eric Scism
Hahaha Sad clown face all over the place thats the best thing I’ve heard in a long time.Β
Amacunlv
Wow! I would love to sample this stick!
Eric Scism
Its pretty awesome! When they come out in Aug be sure to try and get your hands on some!
Cigar Evaluations
Good review, can’t wait to try them! Email me directly at ttyszka@cigarevaluations.com, thanks!
Eric Scism
Yeah they’re def worth the wait, but they’ll be out soon π
Sahgrif
Sounds awesome. Sahgrif@gmail.com
Larry Belcher
I have heard nothing but good things about Crowned Heads, but have yet to have one.Β I must say, the review makes me want to go out and look for them.Β Thanks for the opportunity.
Eric Scism
Larry make sure to check their site for the closest retailer! Try out the Four Kicks until Headley Grange is released!
CoastieET90
Great review, seems like you really enjoy the brand and the two guys sound like a couple of great guys.
Eric Scism
I do love the brand, I love tons of other cigars, but the Headley Grange blend is outstanding!
Mike D.
This is the first review I’ve read of yours; fantastic – on my favorites list you go!
I’ve had some limited contact with Jon – a fantastic guy.Β I wear my 4 Kicks hat with pride.
I see one problem, this cigars is soΒ “hot” in pre-release that it will be hard to get.Β Good luck to all.
Thanks,
Mike D.
donald
Sounds like a late afternoon smoke 4 me hope I win so I can share them
Eric Scism
Donald you’re a kind man, I don’t think I could share these if I won them π
Ace
This is the third review I’ve read claiming that this cigar is remarkable. Nice to see EPC getting the credit he deserves.
Eric Scism
EPC is incredible, I’ve had some great smokes from him, I think he’s great at taking an idea and making it into an awesome smoke!
Drake Bishop
Would love to try one. Or ya know, 24.Β
Eric Scism
Haha 24 is the better choice π
Manthatlaughs
I hope I win to share the wealth
Eric Scism
Sharing the wealth is nice, I’d probably just keep them for myself though π
Ian Massey
Looking forward to trying these, love the Four Kicks! Β Thanks for the review and contest.
Eric Scism
You’re welcome Ian thanks for stopping by and support us! If you like Four Kicks then I bet you’ll love Headley Grange!
Chris DiSalle
These looks great and your review has made me very interested! I will definitely have to try them.
Eric Scism
Glad you liked the review! Thanks for stopping in
Ken Cioffredi
Four Kicks is one of my fav sticks so i can’t wait to try these. Thanks for the review.
Eric Scism
I’m right there with you! I love some Four Kicks, I can’t wait for Headley Grange to hit stores!
Nrperales
Great review, almost felt like I was smoking one with you. Keep up the great work! I’m sure it’s a labor of love
Eric Scism
Thanks for the kind words! Couldn’t have said it better myself, I love writing about these cigars!
Isaac Lafond
Great website and a Great review. Flavor wheel is especially helpful. All their packaging looks pretty sweet!
Eric Scism
Thanks Isaac! Glad to see you found time to read the review on your vacation π
Stephen thompson
Am already a Four Kicks fan so I can’t wait to try this one. It’s great to see some new thinking that includes old standards. Best.
Eric Scism
I didn’t know if those guys could top Four Kicks, but they sure have for me. I love this new blend, hopefully you’ll get to try them soon!
Drew
Great review. You’ve got me pumped to buy a box on sight without smoking one. Four kicks is my favorite cigar but I have a feeling this one move to the top of the list. Thanks for the good review.
Eric Scism
Yeah man if you love Four Kicks you won’t even have to second guess buying these Headley Grange sticks! More flavor and more body. Both great cigars!
Marc
My thoughts on your review – “Whole Lotta Love”. Thank you for the review and anticipation.Β
Eric Scism
HAHAHAHA Β I love it!Β
Mark Klein
Looking forward to trying this second release, as the Four Kicks corona was a worthy smoke.
Eric Scism
Yes the Corona gorda was my fave vitola from that blend!
LukeB
Love the band on this cigar! Good review -ccan’t wait to smoke one of these.
Eric Scism
The band is very impressive. the box is a great work of art as well!
Meatcake
Killer sounding cigar, great review too. look forward to trying some!
Eric Scism
Thanks meat! … Isn’t that a line from Bull Durham?
Jack Mehoff
Great cigar! I had one of these a few years back and can still taste the greatness. I hope I get the box, the second mouse always gets da cheeeeeze!!!!
Eric Scism
Well… They haven’t released it yet maybe you have it confused with another stick? Either way I”m sure you’ll enjoy this one!
Anthony Tassin
Hmm. sounds like an interesting cigar.
Eric Scism
I’m betting that you’ll enjoy it!
Gllerner
ready for a box….
Eric Scism
Me too π
Mikeee
Would love to have a box!
Eric Scism
As would I. I’m gonna have to figure out how to buy two of them!
Neal
It makes me want to get a box today.Β Cannot wait to enjoy the smoke!
Eric Scism
I think everyone should get a box today, if you could. After the convention this week I’m hoping they start popping up stores around the country.
numismaniac
Β Eric, I like the way you think, thanks, brother. I bet Uptown’s gonna have some soon.
thatrev
I loved the review! Sign me up for the contest
Eric Scism
Thanks for the compliment! Consider yourself signed up!
Tom
Exited the new Crowned,Heads stick is a Sumatra! It looks like a slam dunk, and something I’m looking forward to trying. Thanks for the review!
Eric Scism
Yeah they didn’t want to do a sumatra wrapper in the beginning, but it turned out great!
John bradburne
great job guys, i have facebooked, google+ and commented hopefully i can try these
Eric Scism
Way to cover all the bases John π
numismaniac
Great guys, I’m sort of lucky, live just over two hours away, but health keeping me from traveling often. Stopped by their office,great buncha folks, can’t wait to get my hands on some of these. Wish me luck, sign me up, brother. In West Tn. Gonna look you up sometime.
Eric Scism
Yeah man they are some great guys for sure!
Willie Thompson
great reveiw love to try them
Eric Scism
Thanks Willie hopefully we’ll know soon when they go sale!
Brent Hachigo
I loved the Four Kicks and I can’t wait to try these.
Eric Scism
I have a feeling you won’t be let down π
JohnG
One of the top cigars coming out of the show that I am looking forward to smoking. Thanks for the opportunity to win a box.
Eric Scism
Yeah I’m sure its got a lot of buzz going on at the show!
Cigars4mango
Great review. Love the Four Kicks, can’t wait to get my hands on these.
Mango
Eric Scism
You and me both!
numismaniac
Got a treasure of a wife, I don’t do facebook, but she has an account and went through the motions, thanks for the chance and the review, brother.
Eric Scism
Haha that is a good wife. So if you win does she get half? π
numismaniac
Β Nah, when I said TREASURE, tis true, an RN, non-smoker, and puts up with me! A big part of why I’m still above ground, LOL!
007MI6
Looks like a 1 in 132 chance of winning. Hmmmm, come on lady luck! Awesome contest Eric! Thanks for all that you guys do at SOTR!
Eric Scism
Haha Jerad those aren’t terrible odds, better than the lottery π
Chris franke
So as I smoke my Punch I now feel like this box must be mine.
Dan Stanley
Great review can’t wait to try them!
Β
Chad Bonanno
Nice review! I am looking forward to trying these! VERY EXCITING!
007MI6
Did I totally miss it, or have you not announced the winner yet? Because I haven’t received any winner notifications in my box yet…. πΒ
irratebass
Yo! Did I win????
Eric Scism
Sorry Irrate, you didnt win π I announced it on all the social media networks who won.
John Cowan
This sounds like a great cigar. I just found your web site. I probably will not get to try this cigar this year. So, I hope I am lucky enough to win a free box.
Eric Scism
@johncowan:disqus thanks for stopping by! Im glad you found it. Sorry the contest was over a week ago. The winner has already been picked. I guess I better update this post! π
Jeff Curtis
Had a Headly Grange this week and really enjoyed it
Eric Scism
@facebook-1504122006:disqus glad you enjoyed the cigar! I stand behind that its one of the best cigars of the year!
Kimm Hunt
Your review leaves me not caring whether I win or purchase a box, but a box it shall be!
Eric Scism
Well I’m glad the review pushed you towards buying a box I’m sure the CH guys will be glad to hear that!
OchoZacho
I just picked up two singles at my local shop and can’t wait to give them a try!
Eric Scism
Nice man! I’d love to hear what you think about them!
BWallace
Great review! Love the four kicks and will have to give this one a try. Has the contest ended?