Crowned Heads Jericho Hill

-Inspired by Johnny Cash-

Jericho Hill has been on the market for a little while now, but we’re going to take a little closer look at the 4th standard offering from Crowned Heads. Sure there’s been a couple “limited release” smokes in between the usual lineup, but this is their first official brand created outside the E.P Carrillo factory in the Dominican Republic. Jericho Hill is developed at the My Father S.A. factory in Esteli, Nicaragua.

Jon Huber [co-founder] of the Nashville based Crowned Heads tells a story of his inspiration behind the name. “Cocaine Blues” Cash sings the song of a young man’s plight making some pretty bad decisions involving Cocaine, Whiskey & a .44 Magnum. I spent the entire evening listening to the record while enjoying this fine smoke. Although it was way before my time, it turned out to be a very nostalgic experience. Here are a few lyrics from the song…

Early one mornin’ while makin’ the rounds
I took a shot of cocaine and shot my woman down
I went right home and I went to bed
I stuck that lovin’ forty-four beneath my head.
Got up next mornin’ and I grabbed that gun
Took a shot of cocaine and away I run
Made a good run but I run too slow
They overtook me down in Juarez Mexico
Laid in the hot joint takin’ the pill
In walked a sheriff from Jericho Hill
He said Willy Lee your name is not Jack Brown
You’re the dirty hack that shot your woman down.

Jericho Hill Breakdown

This particular smoke is the “Willy Lee” box-pressed Toro (6×54) size. I paid $9.50 at a local B&M but there are 3 other sizes ranging from $7.95 to $8.95. Pre-light characteristics include a thick, oily wrapper & a classic looking cigar label. Nothing too flashy here, except the experience. Prior to the flame hitting the foot, I notice a strong black pepper aroma with hints of cloves and anise. The draw was firm but effortless, just like a well made box pressed toro should be. Construction is a major factor for me personally & no let downs here.

Sitting on the porch on a beautiful Sunday evening, the first several puffs blasted me with the peppercorn flavor originally noticed on pre-light. Initial thoughts are full body spice bomb! An early French Inhale almost brought me to my knees but I said ALMOST.. That’s how I like it, on the edge of the cliff without falling off. After a quick kick in the face I decided that wasn’t enough & decided to crack open a bottle of Stone Brewing Enjoy By 4/20. A cloud of smoke filled the air as I puffed away.

As I mentioned, construction is extremely important to me. The Jericho Hill burned well from beginning to end. Even with all the juggling of trying to find the right shot, taking a few pictures, & having a few drinks, it developed a nice 2 1/2 inches of medium gray ash before I decided I didn’t wanna wear it… Even burns, no re-lights & perfect draw made it an absolute pleasure to smoke. I even asked my wife to take a couple puffs, she said “It tastes like a cigar.” Damn straight!

A little more than half way through the stick, the spicy pepper notes started to fade a little. At this point I’d consider it a nice medium body. While the spice is still present, I decided to go with a little contrast in flavors on the next pairing. The sweet plum flavors of the barley wine really brought the zesty profile back to the front of the Jericho Hill.

Would I smoke this cigar again?

Without a freakin’ doubt. I’d really love to see this thing age for a year or two so I may just have to buy a box & toss them in the humidor.

Short Link: