Casdagli Basilica C #3

Casdagli Basilica C #3

The Basilica C #3 demonstrates how exceptional tobacco selection and masterful blending can transform a compact format into a powerhouse smoking experience. During a recent conversation with Hendrik Kelner Jr., he explained how creating the petit robusto version required recalibrating the blend proportions to maintain the signature citrus tartness while accommodating the shorter smoking time. This 4-inch by 52 ring gauge vitola packs the complexity of its larger siblings into a format perfect for when time constraints meet the desire for premium quality.

• Compact 4″ x 52 petit robusto format delivers concentrated flavors in 60-75 minute sessions
• Dark Ecuadorian Corojo wrapper provides unsweetened cocoa and chocolate notes with exceptional oil content
• Sweet Nicaraguan Jalapa binder balances the wrapper’s richness while contributing natural sweetness
• Three-country filler blend combines Dominican and Nicaraguan tobaccos for layered complexity
• Signature shaggy foot design exposes filler for gradual introduction to full-bodied profile
• Medium-full to full body with chocolate, espresso, pepper, oak, and subtle citrus characteristics
• Box count of 20 cigars with 69% RH Boveda humidification for optimal preservation

The engineering precision required for this petit robusto showcases the Kelner family’s expertise in adapting complex blends to challenging formats. The exposed filler at the foot extends approximately quarter-inch beyond the wrapper, serving as both visual signature and functional element. This design philosophy, consistent across the Basilica line, allows the pure filler blend to introduce the palate gradually before the wrapper and binder’s influence takes hold. The dark Ecuadorian Corojo wrapper, with its pronounced chocolate characteristics, displays the deep mahogany coloration and minimal veining that indicate peak fermentation and careful selection.

The tobacco composition reflects thoughtful adaptation from the original Basilica C #1 toro format. The Ecuadorian Corojo wrapper brings intensity and richness typically associated with maduro processing, yet maintains the natural wrapper’s complexity. The Nicaraguan Jalapa binder, sourced from Nicaragua’s sweetest tobacco-growing region, provides essential balance to the robust wrapper while contributing the citrus notes that define the Basilica C line. The Dominican and Nicaraguan filler combination creates depth without overwhelming the shorter format, with each component carefully proportioned to ensure flavor evolution despite the reduced smoking time.

Smoking dynamics prove remarkably complex for the compact size. The initial lighting of the exposed filler delivers immediate earth, coffee, and mild pepper before transitioning into wrapped portion where chocolate and cream emerge prominently. The citrus tartness, a hallmark of the Basilica C line, appears subtly in the background, becoming more pronounced through retrohale. Construction quality remains exceptional, with the burn line staying sharp despite the shaggy foot design. The draw resistance proves optimal, though the concentrated tobacco requires measured pacing to prevent overheating. Multiple reviewers note the impressive ash stability, often holding for over an inch despite the petit format.

Summary

• Box Count: 20
• Region: Dominican Republic
• Strength: Medium-Full to Full
• Binder: Nicaraguan Jalapa
• Wrapper: Ecuadorian Corojo
• Filler: Dominican Republic, Nicaragua

How does the Basilica C #3 compare to the C #1?

The C #3 delivers bolder earth and coffee notes with less pronounced citrus sweetness compared to its toro-sized sibling. The compact format concentrates flavors, creating a more intense experience despite sharing the same tobacco components. The shorter smoking time means faster transitions between flavor phases, making each third more distinct and dramatic.

What makes Nicaraguan Jalapa binder special?

Jalapa Valley produces Nicaragua’s sweetest tobacco due to its unique microclimate and red clay soil composition. This naturally sweet binder perfectly balances the robust Ecuadorian Corojo wrapper, preventing the blend from becoming overly intense while contributing the subtle citrus notes that characterize the Basilica C line. The Jalapa region’s tobacco also burns exceptionally well, ensuring consistent performance.

Why use Ecuadorian Corojo for the wrapper?

Ecuadorian Corojo combines the spicy, rich characteristics of traditional Corojo seed with Ecuador’s cloud-filtered sunlight, creating a wrapper with natural sweetness and exceptional fermentation potential. The result delivers unsweetened cocoa and dark chocolate notes without requiring maduro processing, maintaining complexity while adding the richness typically associated with darker wrappers.

What does the shaggy foot design achieve?

The exposed filler serves multiple purposes: it provides a pure introduction to the blend’s core flavors, allows visual inspection of filler quality, and creates a graduated flavor experience as the burn progresses into the wrapped portion. This design philosophy, inspired by Middle Eastern clients seeking cigars to pair with oriental teas, gently introduces the palate to the full-bodied profile.

How long does this petit robusto typically smoke?

Despite its 4-inch length, the Basilica C #3 provides 60 to 75 minutes of smoking enjoyment. The 52-ring gauge and dense packing create slower burn rates than expected, while the concentrated tobacco delivers complexity typically associated with larger formats. Several reviewers report smoking times exceeding one hour, impressive for this compact vitola.

What flavor progression should I expect?

The exposed filler opens with earth, coffee, and pepper. Once reaching the wrapped portion, chocolate and cocoa emerge strongly, balanced by cream and the Jalapa binder’s sweetness. The second third introduces oak, espresso, and increased spice with subtle citrus notes appearing through retrohale. The final third concentrates these flavors while adding leather and roasted nuts, with pepper intensifying toward the finish.

Is this suitable for newer cigar smokers?

While exceptionally crafted, the Basilica C #3’s medium-full to full body and concentrated flavor delivery suit experienced palates better. The petit format intensifies the strength perception, and the complex flavor transitions require attention to fully appreciate. Newer smokers might find the larger C #1 format more approachable, as it provides similar flavors with gentler progression.

How does this pair with beverages?

The Basilica line was specifically created for pairing with oriental teas and Arabic cuisine, making it exceptional with Turkish coffee or strong black tea. The chocolate and earth notes complement aged rum beautifully, while the citrus undertones work well with bourbon. Several reviewers specifically mention Diplomatico rum as an ideal pairing, with the sweetness balancing the cigar’s intensity.