May I have another Classico Espresso?

Author's Rating:

Pros: Reliable, quality espresso brew maker, safe "steel" construction, simple to use.

Cons: Very industrial aesthetics, two shot limit per brew cycle, frother leaks a bit.

The Bottom Line: 
Whether maintaining an old espresso habit, or building a new one, the SAECO Espresso Classico provides a simple, reliable, safe, quality espresso brew.

Author's Review
If one is good, two are better. Most espresso drinkers feel this way. After racking up a habit of around 4 to 5 shots daily, I had to call it quits. That was around 6 years ago. In the spring of this year, I decided to enjoy espresso once again, but this time at a controlled pace and with quality ingredients and equipment.

Based on some very alarming information gained years ago about a possible link between aluminum cooking surfaces and its effects on mental capacity and aging, I wanted steel components in my espresso maker. Most lower quality or cheaper espresso makers have aluminum lined heating tanks. I also wanted a real pump for producing the best quality espresso and crema instead of heat. In addition to disliking the scent of burning beans caused by an inferior grinder, I dislike burning the grind with a poor espresso maker even more.

These are the two factors I wish to emphasize most about the SAECO Espresso Classico: Don't underestimate the real value of steel vs aluminum. Also, keep in mind that a pump-induced crema and espresso drink will not be as hot as the espresso produced from a high-temperature pressure system. This is good. The chances of burning the brew are non-existent. If you need a warmer brew, then preheat the cup on the top of the maker.

I found the training video accompanying the maker to be very informative and necessary. While the espresso making process using the SAECO Classico is very simple, care must be taken to ensure the pump is primed. I found reviewing the tape a couple of times, especially the priming and frothing part, to be very helpful.

I have had my machine nearly 5 months now. I use it once about every other day. I am maintaining my goal of "controlled use." I am very pleased with the brew quality. On three occasions, I have entertained and was able to make dozens of espresso drinks with ease. There is work involved with keeping fresh grind in the brew cup, but keeping the brewing or frothing temperature in range was very easy. My guests were very pleased with their espresso beverages from the SAECO Espresso Classico.

Update May 12, 2004:

I am getting reviewer comments suggesting that my review would be improved if I included more info on how to use the maker and on espresso in general. I would like to re-emphasize my purpose in writing this review: To point out the importance of steel construction of internal components over aluminum, and to inform those familiar with "heat only" produced espresso of the temperature difference that can result from the "heat with pump" method. I am not compelled at the present time to expand this review into a "How To" manual for making espresso, or the varieties of espressos and espresso drinks. There are literally hundreds of web sites and books that will do this for you. Before I wrote my review, I reviewed the existing reviews at Epinions and strived to add something in my review missing from the others. While I could give specific operating instructions, the SAECO Classico, as well as any other espresso maker, will require practice and reading the manual (or viewing the video)in order to master. The SAECO Classico does offer a minimalist approach with maximum control of the brewing process. Those who make espresso with the SAECO Classico will be very engaged with the process. I stand by my epinion and accept whatever rating reviewers wish to give. I saw a need for people to be more informed and clued-in to my decision making criteria. Hope this helps. Bottoms Up!