Showing posts with label lever espresso maker. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lever espresso maker. Show all posts

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Vev Vigano Carioca Nero 6-Cup Espresso Maker

Vev Vigano Carioca Nero 6-Cup Espresso MakerIs it possible to fall in love with an espresso maker? I seem to have. I'm charmed by the looks of this ingeniously designed little appliance and smile when I see it, but it's not just another pretty face.

I drink strong coffee and will often order a 4 or 5-shot latte or cappuccino, which can be a rather expensive morning beverage. I've used small electric espresso machines and even tried a few more elaborate models, but none of them delivered authentic coffee-house-style espresso, even with the best French Roast or Espresso Grinds. Plus, they all had aluminum parts, which bothered me.

Before I purchased the Vev Vigano, I was boiling my coffee in a mixed cowboy/Turkish style manner that delivered a strong brew but was messy and left sludge in the bottom of my cup.

The Vev Vigano is surprisingly easy to use. Fill the bottom with water, lightly tamp in some espresso-ground coffee and screw on the top. I put mine on a very slow heat setting (the three-setting on an electric stove) and place it on the edge of the burner, so the handle doesn't cook. The low heat can prolong the life of your gasket. I heat up a little full-fat milk in a one-quart saucepan and use a $2 hand-held frothing wand to create a thick and stiff foam. Voila! My 24-ounce-mug is filled with a cappuccino fit for the most devout believer in the goodness of strong espresso topped with clouds of froth.

What you won't miss when you replace your electric espresso maker is the rather fetid, steamy miasma that emanates as the espresso is brewing. There's very little aroma involved when you use this espresso maker, just some cheerful bubbling noises as the brew is finishing. You also probably won't miss de-scaling your machine or wondering what lurked in the water chamber.

Cleanup is a breeze. The steam compresses your grounds into a solid and relatively dry puck that is easily knocked into the waste or compost bin. The Vev Vigano is composed of three parts which clean quickly with a little sudsy water. This stovetop espresso maker will exceed your expectations I know it has exceeded mine.

I did a LOT of research and finally settled on this one. I was not disappointed. One thing to say upfront is that it is a very good quality product and made in Italy (not made in China or India) and this is stainless which is important I gathered versus aluminum.

Coffee choice should be a finely ground espresso or dark roast similar to one for a traditional espresso machineand the quality of the output is top notch.

I would definitely recommend and have even ordered a second one to take to camp with me!

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I too did a lot of research before buying this one. So far I am very satisfied with this product. It is very well built, no problems yet with the handle or cover. The base is very heavy gauge steel suitable for heating water. I have a gas stove range and this sits well on my burners. Depending on the heat (instructions say to use low heat.) I use med. to low.... it takes 7 min or less to completely brew. One quick note regarding the 6 cup model. It brews about 8 0z of espresso which is suitable for two people. If you are one person, you will probably end up throwing a little extra away. You may want the 4-cup model for just one person. If you are preparing espresso for a dinner party then you may want larger than a 6-cup model. Also you can make a regular American cup of coffee by adding hot water to your espresso, at approx. 1:1 ratio depending on your taste. The straight espresso is great as a topping for ice cream, try it.

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This was my second attempt at an upgrade to stainless steel, and I've been using it for about six months. Look no further this is a terrific espresso maker at a very fair price. Nicely designed (none of them have great handles but this one is fine if you keep it out of the flame), easy to clean, doesn't get dingy like the aluminum ones. Makes scrumptious coffee too just the right amount for one addict-sized latte in the morning. Love this pot.

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After a trip to Italy I was very disappointed to come home to American coffee. Have long wanted an espresso maker but don't have the money or space for a professional machine. This model works well and quickly. Stainless steel rather than aluminium is good. As others have stated, because the very high pressures of large machines are not reached, the "crema" normally seen with espresso doesn't form. However, finely ground coffee produces a rich dark cup. I use a hand pump milk frother for cappuccino.

Saturday, June 14, 2014

DeLonghi ECAM22110SB Compact Automatic Cappuccino, Latte and Espresso Machine

DeLonghi ECAM22110SB Compact Automatic Cappuccino, Latte and Espresso MachineWe bought this after a couple of months looking (unsuccessfully) for a replacement for our 15-year-old krups drip brewer which we loved until it finally pooped out and started leaking like a sieve. At some point in our search we said "maybe we should get serious." This is the first super automatic espresso machine we've ever owned so I can't compare it to anything but I will say this: we love it.

We knew enough to know that "super automatic" is important if you don't like the actual manual process of making espresso (we don't) and since this one doesn't actually say "super automatic" but rather "compact automatic" I was a little confused but eventually learned that compact automatic just means it's a super automatic with a smaller footprint. For those really ignorant like us: Super Automatic means you fill the bean bin and the water bin once every so often, and then it's ready to go. When you want a drink you turn it on and press a button single espresso, double espresso, single lungo, or double lungo. Then you watch as it makes a bunch of interesting noises then fills your cup with beautiful, steaming hot frothy coffee. Then you drink it. Super automatic.

The benefit of a compact super automatic is the smaller footprint of course. The downside is that you have to fill the bean and water reservoirs (and empty the dregs basin) more frequently than "regular size" super automatic. For us it is about twice a week two adults home all day and we like coffee. We're actually probably going through more than normal right now because we're enjoying playing and experimenting with strengths, mixes, quantities, etc. It has been a few days and already I've figured out my tastes but it's still fun trying new things.

If you love coffee and want to treat yourself this is a winner. The small footprint is nice it doesn't look like a commercial espresso machine sitting on our counter (though it's bigger than a regular drip maker). Again I don't have anything to compare it to since this is our first one but I can't think of anything about it we don't like. You have to remove the outside part of the steamer/frother to clean it, or you can leave it off when you froth and avoid that cleaning step. But I don't do any frothing anyway (wife does).

It's super. It's automatic. It's compact. It makes incredible espresso, americana, lungos, long blacks, cappucino, and lattes. We are very happy. I will post back after our first full cleaning.

August update: It has been 8 months and we love it just as much as when we first got it. We cleaned it once it was trivial. No issues except that one bag of beans we purchased from Trader Joes were a little oily and they got stuck in the hopper another reviewer also mentioned this. I removed the little cap from over the hopper (2 philips head screws) and left it off not sure how or if that can hurt anything but it has worked fine since.

Seriously we love this thing. There is nothing like feeling an urge for a cup a joe and 3 minutes later having one in your hands with nothing to do or clean up. And it is goooooood stuff. We were talking the other day and decided it's the best luxury gift we've ever given ourselves.

PROS: Makes very good coffee and lattes. Sleek, good-looking appliance. Works as you would expect.

CONS: (very minor) Chrome "heating" plate doesn't get warm enough to heat anything (who cares?). Beans on the "oily" side don't always feed smoothly from hopper to the grinder.

I've owned several automatic machines over the years from Saeco and DeLonghi (most recently the DeLonghi ESAM3300 Magnifica Super-Automatic Espresso/Coffee Machine) that have acted as our go-to small office coffee makers. (I'm a latte-holic myself, 4 to 5 a day, and admitting that is the first step toward recovery I'm told...) I have a tendency to wear them out in 2 to 3 years because they get a lot of use, 5 days a week. But that is to be expected, at least by me, as these really are intended as home-use machines. That being said, this is a fine machine for it's job which is to keep me in lattes!

It makes very good, tasty shots of espresso for those lattes, steams my 1% milk great with a nice, dense foam, and the regular coffee drinkers are very happy with their full coffees.

Tip: Best way to froth the milk?: swing the frother arm all the way to the left and stack your steamed-milk container with your cold milk in it on top of an empty coffee mug off to the side on the counter. That way your milk container is high enough to just sit there with the wand in it as it steams. You can walk away for a couple of minutes and do something useful. Just don't go too far away and "forget" it's steaming what a mess! But the frother "froths" really well all by itself, doesn't over-bubble and spill over the side like some past machines have done. Well-designed.

Right out of the box, it made a great-tasting first latte for me. One of the best, actually. I left the grinder on the factory setting, and set the rotating knob to between 1:30 and 2:00 o'clock position (just guessing) and it made both a great double-shot of espresso AND a great-tasting regular coffee on my first two tries (I used the "double" buttons on both the espresso side and coffee side that'll make more sense once you see the machine and read the instructions).

I've only had it about a month, but so far so really good. The only minor issue is that bean hopper "con" above. It's a bit shallow in slope, so my slightly oily beans (Costco/Kirkland espresso, roasted by Starbucks beans) get stuck sometimes during the grinding portion of the process, and I have to lift the lid and stir them a bit with a spoon to make sure they get down where they need to go not a huge inconvenience.

I've had a couple of the DeLonghi ESAM3300 Magnificas DeLonghi ESAM3300 Magnifica Super-Automatic Espresso/Coffee Machine mentioned earlier, and they are GREAT machines! (that's the one I have at home for weekend use). I'm hoping this latest DeLonghi for the office lives up to that model's standards. By the way, the model number for replacement water filters is: SER 3017. Google "Water filter SER 3017" though, to find it online, because it doesn't show up on Amazon. And DeLonghi customer service was no help at all via an emailed question about the filter, which should be a concern to them I would imagine. Hey Amazon, how about linking to the company that sells the filter?

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Bought this machine and right out of the box it was not drawing the beans into the grinder.Tried calling the manufacture and all I got was we can return it for repair.

It's only a day old.So I got on Amazon.com and looked at the reviews and see I am not the only one having this problem.So here is the fix.List off the cover to the bean bin and remove the mushroom cap inside the bean bin where the beans go into the grinder.This can be done by removing two little phillips screws and pulling the mushroom cap up and out of the bean bin.Save this piece just in case you would need warranty work for something else.Now there is no problem with beans feeding into the grinder.My guess is that it's a safety thing so one would not reach in and put there fingers into the grinder.Hope this helps someone else.

Read Best Reviews of DeLonghi ECAM22110SB Compact Automatic Cappuccino, Latte and Espresso Machine Here

I have used other automatic espresso machines and I find this Magnifica to be better for many reasons.

1) settings to control strength, temperature, coffee grind coarseness, auto-off time interval, and cup size

2) small footprint in terms of machine size

3) easy to access the water bin which can slide out partially and be filled while it is in place. Very nice feature considering you add water daily like you do with all machines.

4) machine auto-rinses. Some machines make this an option which is really about maintaining the machine.

5) perfect user interface. Easy to use

6) Great coffee.... Great coffee

7) Excellent frother. Many machines (Jura) don't stack up

8) easy to clean! The brew unit comes out and it doesn't require service at the factory. Look for this feature!

9) by-pass doser option. Many machines have this but not all machines in this price range

10) Decent price range and reputable company

11) Nice looks; It is a value blend of plastic and metal where needed. Sure it could be all metal but that would only drive up cost with little to no benefit.

I am happy with the purchase and I have had this for 4 months at this point.

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I am guilty of not reviewing most of the products I buy on Amazon and some of the other websites but I decided to take the time to review this machine because I went through such a difficult time trying to get the best espresso machine without breaking my bank. I purchased this with these things that important to me: Time, ease of use, quality of the drink and again the most bang for the buck. Please keep in mind I have never tried to manually prepare espresso drinks myself but I have tried espresso from local mom and pops shops as well as the more known coffee shops here in New York.

Out of the box the machine is pretty straight forward and comes set for a standard espresso shot. The DVD is very helpful when trying to figure out this machine. It walks you through most of the functions. Depending on whether you will like your espresso shots really strong or not then you can play with the grinder settings and water settings. There are also settings to make the water hotter from the start to make the shot hotter. There is also automatic turn off and you can set this to your liking as well. Bypass doser for decaf, buttons will prepare one or two shots as well as two different settings for long coffee. For detailed videos I would check out Seattlecoffee Gear and youtube. They tell you not to use Dark Oily beans in the grinder because they can get stuck and clog it up. If you prefer the dark beans just try Lavazza or some good brand italian beans at your local espresso house. They can run you a pretty penny but for some its worth it.

I normally put the machine on before I get in the shower. When I come out I press the double shot to prepare my shots and wallah...it's all done in a matter of 60 seconds. I usually drink cold drinks so I use cold milk but I have made several friends shots and they loved it. As far as the shots not being strong enough or not having enough crema, I really have to say that not one person complained about anything yet and I actually find the reg shots of espresso to be way to strong for my taste. This machine is great I love it and have made 2 or more drinks everyday since I got it a month ago. So far so good!

Bottom line, if you are always rushing to get to work, gym, and other places you have to be and you want that cup of espresso before you go this machine is for you. If you enjoy making espresso from scratch and controlling every single part of the process this ISNT for you. As far as quality of drinks I LOVE IT and others who I've made drinks for have said they loved it as well. If you can catch a steal with this machine at around $500 I would say most def GO FOR IT!

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Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Jura Cleaning Tablets for all Jura Automatic Coffee Centers, 6-Count

Jura Cleaning Tablets for all Jura Automatic Coffee Centers, 6-CountPricey but necessary. Keeps my Jura in good shape and I try to take good care of it since it takes such good care of me.

Does what it is designed to do. I need one about every month or so (we drink a LOT of coffee). Painless.

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These are pricey, but considering how expensive my Jura machine is I would be a fool not to do everything the maker recommends to keep it working properly for as long as possible. I use my Jura all day every day and so far so good with keeping it ship-shape.

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I think these tablets are over priced for a cleaning product. I plan to use some of the less expensive tablets to compare and will check back here soon. $ stars because they do keep the machine functioning well. However our daughter has never cleaned her Jura Capresso in 4 years and only had one minor clog which rectified itself with a little water flush.

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Sure they are overpriced, but using the correct product on your expensive automatic coffee maker is a small price to pay to ensure that it is going to keep working. When you pay $2000 for a coffee maker, why would you try to save $5 and risk either harming or only partially cleaning it? False savings!

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Thursday, April 17, 2014

Trion Genuine OEM Replacement Pre-Filter 123324-008 (16x25)

Trion Genuine OEM Replacement Pre-Filter 123324-008DELIVERED TIMELY, ITEM AS DESCRIBED, AND PERFECT FOR MY FURNACE/AIR CLEANER THE ITEM IS TWICE THE SIZE OF THE ORIGINAL ONES WHICH CAN WITH THE INSTALL SO DONT HAVE TO GET ON MY KNEES TO PULL OUT THE SECOND HALF...GREAT. THEY ARE WASHABLE AND MADE OF METAL. THEY MAKE LIFE A LITTLE EASIER FOR ME. MONEY WELL SPENT AND A GREAT PRICE.

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Cuisinox Roma 10 Cup Stovetop Espresso Coffeemaker

Cuisinox Roma 10 Cup Stovetop Espresso CoffeemakerThis is a fantastic stovetop espresso pot; it's got beautiful lines, it's very well crafted and well designed.

First of all, I appreciate that it's made of stainless steel rather than the more traditional aluminum. There's no pitting of the metal over time (and therefore, no aluminum that winds up in my coffee! In using it on an electric stovetop, there's been no discoloration on the outside surface either.

Another reviewer noted the size of this pot, and I was a bit concerned that it would be larger than I expected, but it seems perfect to me; it's not cumbersome or heavy in the least. It's very well constructed and designed to last. Regarding the lid being 'flimsy', the hinge itself does allow a bit of play, but it doesn't seem to pose any danger of breaking. The handle doesn't become too hot to touch, as with some other moka pots.

For me, the pot makes an excellent brew of coffee (I prefer it to my French press), and just enough coffee to fill my extra large mug (about 20 oz., the size of a Starbucks venti). The great thing about a moka pot is that you can tailor the taste of the coffee in a multitude of ways. It will accept a grind from coarse to fine, thereby changing the amount of surface area of coffee that is exposed to the water. You can play with the water and coffee ratio to find what works best for you. And depending on how high you set your stove, you can affect the brew time, which makes a difference in the taste as well. It really allows you to tweak the variables and find the method that is right for you.

Cleaning doesn't pose any issues, and taking it apart and reassembling it is easy and quick. There's a filter insert that allows you to brew a half pot (about a traditionally sized cup of coffee), and it works well. But I almost always make the full amount, and wouldn't enjoy a smaller pot than this.

I love this pot; it's held up well, and I expect it will continue to for years to come.

I recently received my Roma 10 cup it is quite a bit larger than the 6 cup. Overall the construction seems solid although the lid attachment seems a bit flimsy. Unlike other reviewers mine did discolor slightly at the base after use, but I do not really mind the gold hue (and yes the fire was kept low). Also unlike some other reviewers of the 6 cup, I did not find it that difficult to clean. However I would recommend cleaning it soon after it cools. One advantage of the 10 cup vs the 6 cup is that the larger base protects the handle from heat and I have not found the need to use a towel or hot pad to remove it from the stove and pour it. Also you do have the option to make 5 cups and to be honest I cannot see wanting to make less than that ( such as 3 on the 6 cup). The coffee is rich and strong but I would not quite compare it to espresso, however it does pack more puch than the same coffee in my Cappresso drip machine. I like it, and even though the 6 cup is a little more attractive in size, I think it would be too small to make morning (which means a decent cup size)coffee for more than one person. I would recommend it and my only complaint is the way the lid is attached should be more solid.

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THIS IS JUST WHAT WE EXPECTED. WE USE IT WEN WE HAVE COMPANY.

Price was a bit more steep than we think it should cost.

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Makes a rich cup of coffee for two and looks great on your stove top. The product is well made, heavy and top quality. I look forward to using it everyday.

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Monday, September 30, 2013

Jura-Capresso ENA3 Automatic Coffee and Espresso Center, All White

Jura-Capresso ENA3 Automatic Coffee and Espresso Center, All White... when I looked at the price of these coffee machines, but I am so pleased that I made the leap. It's an expensive luxury, but we've come to feel it's a "must have" if really good coffee is of importance to you. We had had a Capresso coffee machine to make lattes and other treats, so I was familiar with the brand. That gave me the confidence to trust that Jura-Capresso made a machine that might be worth the investment. And boy, are we thrilled!! The coffee is dependably wonderful every time. We don't throw out the last half of a pot nor do we feel compelled to keep drinking just to finish that pot. Each cup is made hot and fresh every time. While it may be pricey, we recommend it. If you need just a little encouragement to switch to such a machine... Go for it!

We bought this machine five years ago to replace a Starbucks basic espresso machine that had lasted for ten years and was still going strong. I got it for my husband's birthday because we make espresso daily and wanted something more "automatic" than our basic machine. Within six months of daily use (4-6 shots/day) it was putting out weak shots despite replacing the filter and descaling regularly. We sent it back to the manufacturer where they replaced the burr grinder and cleaned the internal mechanisms and returned it for no cost. Great customer service. Unfortunately, every six months since then we've had to do the same thing and, since the warranty was only for one year, we've paid to ship it cross-country every time since and had to go without the machine for two weeks at a time each time. I am loathe to replace it because it was so expensive, but I am sick and tired of this song and dance. When I finally do bite the bullet and replace it, I won't be buying another Jura despite the helpful, courteous customer service. I wish I had stuck with my Starbucks machine that only cost about 1/4 the price.

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This has to be the best splurge-buy I've ever made. We've been brewing at least 4 cycles every day for the past 3 years, and it has never failed us. We like setting it for a 4 oz. cup, and brew a "2-cup" double per cycle to make a nice 8 oz. cup of lungo. We were worried at first about using the oily dark roasts that we love so much, but it turns out the trick to a strong cup every time is to gently tap and stir at the beans as it grinds to encourage them to fall down the hopper into the grinder. We love using the steamer wand as well for steaming milk. We always use filtered Brita water in the container, and we changed the water hardness setting for descaling to account for the Brita water. I just can't get over that they provide you with six levels of water hardnesses to set!

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