Brand Heritage
Crowned Heads is a Nashville, Tennessee-based boutique cigar company founded in 2011 by Jon Huber and Mike Conder, both veterans of the premium cigar industry. Known for their thoughtful, story-driven approach to tobacco blending and their commitment to small-batch production, Crowned Heads has earned a loyal following among enthusiasts who appreciate craftsmanship and consistency. The brand regularly collaborates with respected Nicaraguan and Honduran manufacturers, and their releases are widely regarded as some of the more distinctive offerings in the boutique segment of the market.
Blend & Construction
The Crowned Heads Broadway Robusto Extra is a Nicaraguan puro at its core, featuring a Nicaraguan binder and all-Nicaraguan filler tobaccos, anchored by a rich Connecticut Broadleaf maduro wrapper. The vitola is an Epicure-shaped robusto extra measuring 4 3/4 inches with a 52 ring gauge — a format that delivers a satisfying smoking experience without demanding an extended time commitment. Connecticut Broadleaf is one of the most revered dark wrapper varieties grown in the United States, prized for its natural oils, pliable texture, and capacity to contribute deep, complex sweetness to a blend. Construction across Crowned Heads lines is generally held to a high standard, and the Broadway is no exception, typically exhibiting an even draw and consistent burn from the first light.
Flavor Profile
In keeping with the character of Connecticut Broadleaf maduro wrappers paired with Nicaraguan tobacco, the Broadway Robusto Extra presents as a medium-full strength smoke with considerable depth. Expect a foundation of dark cocoa, espresso, and earth, layered with notes of natural sweetness that the Broadleaf wrapper contributes throughout the smoke. The Nicaraguan tobacco adds a measured spice and pepper backbone, particularly in the early third, which tends to smooth and integrate as the cigar progresses toward the final third. The smoke itself is full and creamy in texture, with a long finish that rewards a patient, unhurried pace. Complexity builds steadily, making this a cigar that reveals more with each inch smoked.
Recommended Pairings
Alcoholic Pairing: A wheated bourbon such as Maker's Mark or Larceny — the soft caramel and vanilla notes in a wheated bourbon complement the natural sweetness of the Broadleaf wrapper without overpowering the cigar's earthier qualities.
Non-Alcoholic Pairing: A double shot of espresso or a bold dark-roast coffee — the roasted bitterness of a quality espresso mirrors the cocoa and coffee notes in the blend, creating a harmonious pairing that enhances the overall smoking experience.
Best Enjoyed
The Crowned Heads Broadway Robusto Extra is best suited to intermediate and experienced cigar smokers who appreciate the depth and richness that a well-aged maduro wrapper can deliver. It is an ideal evening cigar — particularly well-matched to a relaxed setting after dinner or on a quiet patio at dusk. The compact robusto extra format provides a smoke time of approximately 45 to 60 minutes, making it accessible even when time is limited. Those newer to medium-full cigars should approach this one with a full stomach and a deliberate, slow cadence to fully appreciate its complexity without being overwhelmed by its strength.
English