You are currently browsing the Espresso Machines weblog archives for January, 2010.
Archive for January, 2010
The Gaggia Company is the most famous Italian manufacturer of coffee espresso machines for use in specialized coffee and household espresso maker use and its name is known for tradition and reliable machines around the world. In 1948 Achille Gaggia began his espresso coffee machine company, the man to who we owe a great deal of thanks to for the espresso coffee achievements first in Italy then the entire world. This espresso legend who in September 1938 patented the modern steam-free coffee and cream machine, therefore responsible for the delicious espresso coffee we enjoy today. In 1977 Gaggia S.P.A. started producing coffee machines for in home use, thereby the Baby Gaggia was introduced into the Italian coffee marketplace, which to the present day is considered by many to be the perfect family coffee-maker.
Gaggia products are produced at the Robecco sul Naviglio plant (Milan), where tradition and attention to details combined with state-of-the-art technology help create Gaggia’s famous espresso coffee makers.
Gaggia coffee machines have evolved over the decades beginning with the traditional lever pressure-generating piston to a fully automatic apparatus which, with the simple the touch of a button, activates the mechanism regulating the grinding, dosing and brewing process of luscious espresso coffee. All these features are to be found in the Gaggia Titanium series super automatic espresso machines, their technical perfection results from years of research and development.
GAGGIA continues to undertaken a process of renewal and diversification of its product lines, which include their luxury kitchen line of the Gaggia espresso maker.
Coffee beans as we know them are actually the seeds of the coffee tree. There are usually two seeds grown within a cherry like fruit. While on the tree these seeds are coated with a silverskin, this is a vestigal that remains from the fruits development also known as the spermoderm. The seeds silverskin is sheltered by a parchment like skin (its endocarp), this is covered by a slippery like substance (the parenchyma). This is surrounded by a layer of thin pulp known as the mesocarp. These are all covered with an outer skin; the exocarp. These layers must be removed prior to the roasting of the coffee beans however,there is usually some silverskin that remains intact during the roasting of the beans.
This is the origin of the gourmet coffee as we know it.
If you are an espresso lover like I am, you can easily spend a hefty chunk of change during any given month frequenting your favorite espresso shop. Most people would benefit greatly by purchasing their own espresso machine. There are numerous varieties on the market, finding one that suites your needs can be a challenge to say the least.
Here are a few tips in helping you choose the espresso coffee machine that is best for you.
Since there are quite a few different types of espresso machines on the market today, you’ll need to come to a decision on how much control you want over the espresso brewing process. There is a fine balance between how difficult the machine is to operate and how much direct control you want. To make a choice that is right for you, it is important to comprehend the differences each of the machines has to offer.
For starters will the machine be put to use in your home or in a commercial environment. With so many choices available it is easy to become confused. You’ll need to choose a variety to meet your needs. Below are a few of the primary types of espresso makers available on today’s market.
Lever / Manual Espresso Coffee Machines;
Manual espresso machines are among the most difficult to use. They require a degree of skill to operate. However, once you have mastered this procedure they will brew a great cup of espresso that many connoisseurs are not willing to trade.
While using a manual machine you must fill up the portafilter handle and compact to coffee, preferably using a tamper. Then brush away any loose grounds and lock the portafilter handle onto the machine. The intricate step of producing a great cup of espresso is pulling the handle at the proper time, not doing so may result in an espresso that may not be a good as otherwise could have been. The manual machines date back to the earliest days of Italian espresso, and were used to create the famous espresso we have all grown to love.
Semi Automatic Espresso Machines;
After the manual pump model espresso coffee machine became available, the Semi-automatic espresso machine was later developed during the 1940’s. Since this machine did not require as much skill to operate, it rapidly gained popularity.
The semi-automatic model uses a pump to extract the coffee brew, thus eliminating the inconsistencies associated with the earlier model pump machines.
The semi-automatics were more user friendly than the manual machines. As a result of this invention it suddenly was far easier to brew a great cup of espresso.
Super Automatic Espresso Machines;
So far the machines we spoke about require you the espresso maker to have some degree of hands on with espresso extraction. A new day has arrived in espresso machines where you the espresso maker takes charge of the brewing process. Once easily programmed these super automatic espresso machines do it all. From the grinding of the beans, the tamping of ground coffee, the brewing process, then the dispensing of the spent grounds in an internal dregdrawer and there you have a perfect cup of espresso. In today’s time conscious culture, these machines have grown very popular in recent years.
Enjoy!
We’ll all agree, an espresso is a great coffee beverage, but you aren’t really enjoying great espressos if they aren’t served in traditional espresso cups. Also known as demitasse cups, these miniature little coffee mugs look as though they belong in a doll house setting. Surprisingly, there’s a certain knack to making espresso correctly, and should you be in the market for a new set here are some things that you may wish to keep in mind.
Most cups are traditionally made out of porcelain. Normally, each cup has a capacity for two or three ounces of coffee beverage. Depending on whether you rather have it topped with creamy froth or sugar in your espresso, you might need to get slightly larger cups if that is the case.
From the glass works of Italy directly to your kitchen, porcelain cups can be rather plain or ornate, costly or relatively reasonable in price. If you are a connoisseur espresso lover, you may wish to invest in a expensive set of espresso cups and saucers.
While many still prefer traditional designer style cups, today’s technology has its rewards. As an example, there are numerous modern styles accessible on the market that feature dual walled thermal glass. Such cups keep your espresso much hotter for a longer period of time than the traditional porcelain composition cups.
Whether you prefer traditional or a new trendy style cup, when shopping for a set of cups you should seek out quality. Espresso conisiours know that the best cup of espresso won’t be great unless it is served in an equally quality cup. If it’s too thin, not only is the cup subject to chipping or breakage (in which case you should immediately throw out the cup), but it also allows the heat to disipate quickly. And no one enjoys lukewarm espresso.
Keep in mind when shopping for espresso accessories- cups they are generally available in a rather broad price range. Affordable and decent quality cups can be purchased in the $20.00 range per set, on the other hand one could easily spend a few hundred dollars on a designer set of espresso cups.
Within the world of espresso it is a known fact that a Saeco espresso maker is among some of the highest quality machines available. In recent years the popularity of these superior quality machines has increased considerably. And when you compare the features and benefits of a Saeco espresso machine, you’ll know why. Are they more expensive than their competition? Yes, they are somewhat more expensive. But are they worth it? Absolutely yes! It is difficult to find a quality machine with more value per dollar than a Saeco espresso maker.
Saeco espresso makers offer state of the art technology as well as style. Components used in their manufacture are time tested, in addition their craftsmanship is of superior quality. Add to that such features as rapid steam cappuccino technology and you have a combination that brews some of the finest espresso, lattes or cappuccino available.
Another plus to Saeco is that you can finally have an automatic espresso maker that fits within your budget. Saeco espresso makers feature cup warming, a conical burr grinder, which is necessary for extracting full flavor from your beans, and numerous programmable functions. Another popular feature is its brew strength setting, which makes it simple to adjust the strength of your espresso to your liking. These are features that in the past have only been available for high end super automatic espresso makers. In addition clean up is quick and easy as the brew group is easily removed for cleaning.
With Saeco technology at your finger tips brewing your favorite coffee beverage is as simple as pushing a button to make the perfect cup of espresso. Saeco machines will automatically grind your beans, then brew a fresh cup of espresso. The entire brewing cycle is complete within a few minutes. With the push of a button your on your way to enjoying a great espresso coffee.
If you are seeking a technoligically advanced espresso maker, quality craftsmanship, along with advanced features than a Saeco Espresso Maker may be right for you.
If you looking for something that will replace your regular coffee maker? Did it ever enter your mind to look into a automatic espresso maker to fulfill your craving for a great espresso? In a world filled with ever changing advanced technology, it’s not surprising that many devices are fully automatic, espresso makers are no exception. If you are still wondering if an automatic espresso machine is the right choice for you, these guidelines may help you make a better choice.
Features vs. cost – if you are seeking a simple machine that can easily provide you with a great shot of hot espresso, you don’t really need all the added features that many machines offer. For one thing, the more features there are, the higher the cost of the machine usually is. In addition, the more features there are, a greater chance it has to fail.
Cleaning ease convenience – if you are buying an automatic espresso maker, then it means that you are most likely a busy person with little free time. Therefore, it would defeat the purpose of purchasing an automatic machine if it takes forever to clean. Ease of cleaning is an important feature not to be overlooked when purchasing your new espresso maker……. It will pay off in the end.
If you are already searching on-line to purchase an automatic espresso maker, don’t forget to keep these considerations in mind. Remember you will most likely be using it every day and looking forward to a great cup of espresso. Espresso makers like the Saeco Automatic Espresso Machines line have many models and designes from which to choose. Therefore, take your time, think it through and purchase what is right for you..
In addition there are many other quality brands from which to choose, like the la Pavoni automatic espresso maker line.
Today most people seem to be interested in the quick and easy way of life . Many times because we seek life’s easy path, we tend to sacrifice quality. Seeking a shortcut to a quality espresso hasn’t always been easy however, if you are looking for quick and easy espresso without compromising quality there is great news for you in the Pasquini Livia espresso machine.
The Pasquini Livia Automatic espresso machine is a one touch user controlled machine. While you may need to familiarize yourself with its ease of operation, and the owners manual is very helpful before divine in. And might I add you need not be a nuclear scientist to brew your perfect cup of espresso. This machine will produce a great cup of espresso quickly without sacrificing the quality of the brew. You can also easily switch over to the manual override feature and brew any size coffee beverage you desire.
The controls are straight forward, easy to read as well as very simple to use. There is a commercial quality rocker switch as well as two indicator lights that indicate the operation of your machine. The green light indicates the machine is operational and turned on. The orange light indicates the boiler is heating. There is also a gauge on the front of the machine that monitors the boiler pressure letting you know when the optimum pressure is reached for brewing or frothing of milk. All in all the Pasquini Livia espresso machine is easy to use and a great machine.
This is one of lifes short-cuts where you can create a delicious espresso using the Pasquinis Livia espresso machine without comprimizing quality.
With the Livia you can now see how easy it is to use your very own espresso machine and are now able to brew great espresso in the comfort of your home for family and friends alike.
Espresso is not only a great tasting coffee beverage but it provides a climate for socializing and fun times without the need to frequent your local espresso house. You will now be able to offer your friends and family a great cup of espresso that is just as good if not better of many of the high priced local espresso shops. However, be careful not to make your friends too jealous or comfortable when you are showing off your new espresso machine or you may soon find your home is no longer your sanctuary.
With a Gaggia Platinum Vogue’s espresso machines classy design and its technological brewing system allows you to include espresso into all aspects of your life.The Vogue’s prominent design, has a sleek, simple design that fits well in all environments from your kitchen tothe work place. Inside the Platinum Vogue’s stainless steel front panel and ABS plastic housing is a Rapid Steam stainless steel boiler system, providing exceptional power and temperature stability to pull the ideal shot of espresso. In addition Gaggia’s Pannarello frothing attachment steams milk and frothing foam for your favorite cappuccino or latte coffee drawn from the optional milk island.The Vogue espresso machine also features a stainless steel passive cup warmer, manual height-adjustable cup tray, and Gaggia’s exclusive Espresso Plus System which allows for a more consistent flow of espresso. Designed to bring exceptionally flavored espresso as well as beauty to your home or work place, The Gaggia Platinum Vogue espresso machine is ideal for the individual who is passionate about espresso.
The Pasquini Levietta T2 espresso machine is designed for the individual who takes their espresso machine
seriously. If you seek an espresso machine with a sleek design that won’t take up too much counter space, look no further than the Pasquini Livietta T2. The Livietta is one of the most compact semi-automatic machines on the market. Despite its compact design, the Livietta features the commercial quality Pasquini is known for. With its stainless steel housing, the Livietta has a height of just over 12″ and a meer 8″ width. The Livietta has a powerful 15 bar pump along with 2 thermoblocks that allow you brew and steam simultaneously without any wait time.
The Livietta is known for its rapid heat up time. In just 2 minutes you can begin brewing and 4 minutes to achieve the optimum temperature for steaming, therefore, it’s quick to make espresso, cappuccinos, or lattes for the enjoyment of you and your guests. The Pasquini Livietta’s chrome-plated marine brass brew group locks in valuable heat from the moment brewing begins until the freshly brewed espresso fills your cup. The Livietta T2 espresso machine has a 3-way solenoid valve to regulate brewing pressure for the perfect espresso. With its professional components, the Livietta T2 is designed to create cafe quality espresso through years of dependable use.
The La Pavoni, “Cellini” is a stunning statement of design, style and function. the body made entirely of chromed steel making this espresso machine durable and functional as well. Italian design, the La Pavoni Cellini espresso machine is further enhanced by it’s state of the art technology. Its dual pressure gauges monitor the espresso and cappuccino output and a quiet Ulka pump (producing 16 bars of pressure) drives the machine to produce creamy espresso. In addition the Ulka Pump allows you to enjoy early morning espresso without disturbing others who enjoy sleeping in. A convenient top-loading water container holds 64 ozs. Capable of producing 30 espresso or cappuccinos. Water may be added while the machine is in the on or off position.
Initial warm-up time is a swift 2 minutes. The Cellini espresso machine also features the reliable and easy to use “Super froth attachment”. As well as the “Cappuccino Automatic” attachment which allows the user to draw milk directly from of a milk container before frothing and dispensing into your cup. It will also prevent scalding of the milk before producing the necessary froth. Both are removable for easy cleaning.
The La Pavoni Cellini is a contemporary, fully functional espresso machine that fits well in any kitchen.