Espresso Machines

The new mirror polished or racing red finish Elektra Nivola espresso machine is a true classic, designed for the use of traditional ground coffee or the very popular pod version for no hassle brewing and easy clean-up.

With its technologically advanced features the Nivola produces exceptional espresso, cappuccino or lattes without the need for a great deal of experience. Once the proper temperature and steam pressure is reached on the Nivola it automatically frothes the milk for exceptional lattes or cappuccino.

Operation of this espresso machine is both simple and straight forward. Simply fill the water reservoir directly on the machine by raising the heated cup storage plate or remove the tank from the machine and fill at your sink. With its advanced technology a light indicates when the machines power is on or in stand-by mode until the water is hot enough to brew an espresso coffee. In addition if the reservoir is low on water, the machine stops all functions until it is filled, thereby preventing damage to the boiler heating element.

The Elektra Nivola has an ergonomic control knob for selecting either the espresso or cappuccino brewing function. Another great feature is that the machines stainless steel drip tray is removable for easy clean-up.

All in all the Nivola Elektra espresso machine with its revolutionary design and ease of use is capable of producing exceptional cappuccino, lattes or espresso coffee drinks. The Nivola classic streamlined design adds a very stylish addition to any kitchen or espresso bar.

The famous Bialetti espresso coffee makers originated in Italy in 1933, its unique octagon shape is synonymous with the name Bialetti. The Bialetti Company continues to be a leading manufacturer of stovetop espresso makers.

Espresso is brewed by allowing pressurized hot water to steep through very finely ground coffee. The fact that high pressure is used, aids in extracting the true flavors and aroma from the ground espresso coffee.

The espresso maker is as effective in producing a flavor filled espresso with great aroma without the use of a high priced espresso machine. You just fill the container with water, go through the brewing cycle and pour a hot delicious cup of espresso.

A few pointers to keep in mind are: fill the lower chamber with water; keeping the water level below the safety valve, not following these guidelines may cause the espresso maker to explode causing serious bodily harm. It is best to use pure drinking water, preferably filter as the taste of chlorinated tap water will spoil the taste of your espresso. Use a very fine ground coffee, loosely filled, do not compact the coffee. Brew on medium to low heat; do not allow the coffee to boil as this will spoil the flavor of the espresso. Once the coffee reaches the top of the unit remove from the stove and you can now enjoy a great cup of espresso coffee. The end result is greatly affected by the quantity of water and coffee used during the brewing cycle. You will need to experiment with this ratio as well as the variety and brand of ground coffee until you find the proper ratio and blend that suits your taste.

To guarantee a long life for your stovetop espresso maker it is best to avoid using high heat during the brewing cycle, wash and rinse the container in your sink, avoid using a dishwasher as this will effect the finish. Air or towel dry the chambers making certain it is completely dry before storing. One other note, with time it will become necessary to replace the rubber gasket as these tend to dry out and become brittle. With a little care you will be enjoying great tasting espresso from your Bialetti stovetop espresso maker for years to come

A delicious espresso is not something that just magically appears it is a direct result of its ingredients, the quality of the espresso machine and the skills of the barista. Since many brewing techniques are subjective, you will need to develop your own skills to create an espresso that is pleasing to your palate. There is no substitute for knowledge therefore it is essential to acquire the basics of brewing a great espresso.

The primary ingredient of espresso is water therefore, the water you use should be filtered (conditioned) and pure, there should be no distracting taste or odor. If stale water is used it will produce a poor quality espresso with an objectionable taste. Always be certain the water is fresh and has not been sitting in you espresso machines water tank or reservoir for days if not weeks. Many people believe that by merely heating the water it will eliminate impurities and improve its taste, this is not the case. There is no substitute for quality water, not only will it enhance the taste of your espresso but it will extend the life of your espresso machine as well since it will be free of impurities and minerals that can create scale build-up in your machine. On other note it is ideal to have a brewing temperature of just over 200 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal taste.

The other essential ingredient of a great espresso is the quality of the beans. Here again there is no substitute for freshness and quality. For even the best beans will develop a foul taste if allowed to sit around and become stale. Ideally a dark roast is best suited for a quality espresso; the grind should be fine and no more than 10 days old. After this period of time ground coffee begins to loose its aroma therefore it s good idea not to purchase large quantities of coffee that will not be consumed within a reasonable period of time. Then again since all of our palates are different it will require sampling of different blends of beans until you find one that is suitable to your taste.

The last component to producing a great espresso is the espresso machine itself. It should be a quality machine from a reputable manufacturer and dealer. The espresso machine you choose should be able to supply water at the proper temperature that the oils, aroma and flavorful essence of the espresso coffee can be fully extracted. Another consideration is that is should have ample steam to properly froth milk for producing quality lattes and cappuccinos.

Over time as you fine tune your brewing skills and will master the techniques necessary to produce a great cup of espresso coffee. Some tips that will help you achieve that goal are; Make certain the machine is warmed up and you run through a shot of hot water to warm the machines dispenser. Make sure the grounds are properly tamped with enough pressure to compact them; tightly compacted grounds require a longer period of time for the water to run through therefore, you are able to extract the full flavor from the ground espresso. On other tip is to have your cup warmed that way your freshly brewed shot of espresso will not be chilled from a cold cup.

Remember quality ingredients, a few tricks of the trade, and it won’t be long before you are pulling shots like a master barista for that delicious cup of espresso.

After many successfully years with the laPavoni  Europiccola and Professional line of espresso machines now comes the Stradivari series. This machine conveys a clean design along with laPavoni’s technical expertise with over 100 years of espresso machine experience.

The Stradivari along with the laPavoni Jolly coffee grinder combined creates an exceptional espresso beverage. The Stradivari design was inspired from the violin and famous lute-maker Antonio Stradivari who lived in Cremona Italy.

The Plinth is reminiscing of the Violin case and the lever the bow. The end result is the newest LaPavoni espresso machines the “Stradivari”. Aesthetically beautiful as well as practical, dependable and pleasurable to use, not to mention the delicious espresso it produces, this machine is a true classic.