Smoke & Brew: A Journey of Cigars & Coffee
“Smoke & Extraction”
An invitation to slow down.
To recalibrate the senses.
To experience cigar and coffee in dialogue — not in haste.
On a refined Sunday morning, at the elegant premises of Chelona Restaurant by Cava Nektar, in the heart of Athens, we gather to enjoy a curated cigar experience paired with different expressions and extractions of exceptional specialty coffee.
This is not brunch.
This is calibration.
The Cigar
Lampert Cigars
Founded by Dr. Stefan Lampert, Lampert Cigars is a boutique cigar company known for:
* Precision blending with European attention to balance and elegance
* Collaborations with respected Nicaraguan factories
* Structured, evolving profiles designed for serious smokers
Lampert focuses on complexity without aggression — refined strength, layered development, and balance.
Lampert Rojo
The cigar of the morning.
Crafted in Nicaragua, the Lampert Rojo delivers a vibrant yet controlled experience.
* Nicaraguan-forward blend
* Medium-bodied with refined intensity
* Notes of red pepper, cedar, roasted nuts, subtle cocoa, and natural sweetness
* Excellent combustion and structural integrity
The Rojo evolves in clear stages — making it ideal for a progressive coffee pairing.
A cigar built for transition.
And transition defines this morning.
The Coffee Experience
A Micro-Lot Journey from Nicaragua
Our coffee selection comes from La Bastilla Coffee Estates, located in the mountainous region of Jinotega.
La Bastilla represents a philosophy of cultivation:
* Up to 150 micro-lots annually
* Individual micro farms allowing full varietal expression
* Sustainable water management and environmental responsibility
* Precision-focused specialty production
Variety & Altitude
* Caturra varietal
* Grown at 1250–1450 masl
* Slow maturation enhancing sugar concentration and aromatics
Processing
* Washed method
* Yeast fermentation
* Exceptional clarity and terroir expression
This particular micro-lot carries elegant, bright acidities due to its distinctive processing — acidities we will manage and soften thoughtfully through sequence and pairing.
Aromatic & Flavor Profile
* Sweet mandarin
* Sugarcane
* Caramel
* Cocoa
* Ripe stone fruits (peach, plum)
* Silky, luminous acidity
* Buttery, viscous body
* Long, sweet finish
The Guided Coffee & Cigar Progression
We are honored to welcome Dimitris Karampas, respected coffee professional and educator within the Greek specialty coffee community, known for his technical mastery of extraction and sensory calibration. Brand Ambassador of AVEK Vekrakos S.A.
Since 1997, AVEK Vekrakos has been a leading force in the Greek coffee industry, combining expertise, quality, and continuous investment in coffee culture. With a strong presence both in Greece and abroad, the company has built a reputation for excellence and innovation. He will prepare each coffee live and conduct a focused mini masterclass on extraction dynamics, acidity control, and balance when pairing with premium cigars.
The Order of Service
We begin with softness.
We move to intensity.
We conclude with refinement.
1️⃣ Cappuccino — First Third of the Cigar
We start with cappuccino.
Milk has the unique ability to gently “reset” and prepare the palate. It softens sharper acids and creates a rounded introduction to both coffee and cigar.
As the Lampert Rojo opens with spice and cedar, the cappuccino smooths the edges and enhances its natural sweetness.
Paired with:
* French financier
* Buttery biscuits
* Fresh croissants
A balanced and welcoming start.
2️⃣ Espresso — Second Third
Now we move to structure and concentration.
After the palate has been rounded and calibrated, the espresso delivers intensity and precision. The condensed extraction highlights the coffee’s caramel, cocoa and citrus brightness while interacting dynamically with the cigar’s developing core.
Paired with:
* Premium dark chocolate
* Selected butter cookies
When combined with fine chocolate, the espresso transforms — amplifying cocoa depth and dramatically smoothing acidity.
3️⃣ Cold Brew — Final Third
We finish with elegance.
Cold brew emphasizes sweetness, texture and clarity while reducing perceived acidity. It allows the buttery body of the Caturra varietal to shine.
As the Lampert Rojo deepens toward its final third, the pairing becomes polished, calm and harmonious.
Paired with:
* Macadamia or cashews
* Dried fruits
* Light cake selection
A clean, composed conclusion.
The Venue
Chelona Restaurant – By Cava Nektar
Athens City Center
A refined urban setting combining hospitality with premium beverage culture.
Natural light.
Relaxed Sunday elegance.
A setting designed for conversation and sensory exploration.
A Study in Evolution
Cigar evolves with time.
Coffee evolves with extraction.
The palate evolves with sequence.
This Sunday morning is about understanding that evolution.
Limited seating available.
A ritual of smoke, texture and aroma – elevated.
Useful Links
Lampert Cigars – www.lampertcigars.com
La Bastilla Coffee Estates – www.bastillacoffee.com
Cava Nektar – www.cavanektar.gr
