Professional Results At Home From the Gaggia Classic Espresso Machine
Amongst people looking to choose a coffee maker, the Gaggia Classic often comes towards the top of the list of high performers. Can the status really be justified?
When you look at what purchasers of the machine have to say, it certainly looks as if it can. Why is that?
- Gaggia have incorporated many of the features from their commercial machines into the Classic. As an example, the plated brass filter holder is a product of that development, and makes certain that the coffee grounds are maintained at the right temperature. In addition, the heated water is distributed in a ‘shower’ pattern instead of a single stream, removing hot spots which can scorch the coffee.
- The working pressure of 15 bar, coupled with a heating power of 1300 W means that the machine heats up quickly, and has plenty of brewing pressure.
- Two sizes of filter cup are provided, for one or two cup operation. A ‘perfect crema’ filter can be used in the bigger of the two, meaning that the machine will take ESE pods instead of grounds if you want. These are very convenient to use as they certainly cut down the cleaning effort needed.
- The ‘perfect crema’ device will let you to get away with coffee that is not perfectly ground or tamped down. The flow restriction ensures that flavour is evenly extracted. The crema is improved by the spray action as the coffee is discharged from the filter holder.
- Cleaning is not a great problem in any case. The water tank can be removed from the machine, and all the other bits that need to be kept clean can be easily dismantled. The stainless-steel casing should look good for years.
The reviews are not wholly positive, but most of the opposing views are fairly minor. The use of the steam frother can be a bit awkward for example.
Most of the criticisms (as with almost all other espresso machines as well) are from those who really do not appreciate the principles of espresso making, and expect too much of a machine.
In particular, the coffee MUST be finely ground and MUST be properly tamped down into the holder. If that advice is not followed, you won’t get good espresso from the Gaggia Classic or any other coffee maker. An option of course is to use the ‘perfect crema’ device.
People who appreciate this and have taken the time to learn the ins-and-outs of proper espresso brewing say how well the Classic performs.
So in general terms, the Gaggia Classic scores pretty well. The manufacturers have put a wealth of experience into the Gaggia Classic, and come up with a home coffee maker that will satisfy even the most demanding.
You can read more about the Gaggia Classic and many more kitchen aids and appliances at Tern Kitchen Reviews
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