Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Nespresso C100T Essenza Single-Serve Automatic Espresso Machine

Review Nespresso C100T Essenza Single-Serve Automatic Espresso Machine

Nespresso C100T Essenza Single-Serve Automatic Espresso Machine

Nespresso C100T Essenza Single-Serve Automatic Espresso Machine Overview

          Nespresso has developed a unique extraction system specially adapted to capsules. It controls every vital setting when preparing a perfect espresso. Nespresso machines have been designed with renowned partners and designers, and bring out the taste and aromas of coffee by combining quality of design with ease of use. The Nespresso C100 Essenza Automatic Machine is part of our compact line, which features a modern, compact, and practical design. The machine deploys technology essential for preparing an outstanding Espresso, and is exceptionally easy to use: Automatic control of the amount of coffee in the cup. A high pressure pump (19 bars) extracts all the aromas and develops a smooth crema in the cup. A thermobloc which heats water to 187°and 196° during extraction and empties the remaining water after each use so that the water is fresh for each preparation. A simple system which perforates the capsule and soaks all the ground coffee to optimally filter the coffee. A functional handle system, which allows for easy coffee preparation. Automatic ejection of used capsule. Removable water container (34 oz). Tray for used capsules. Back-lit control button
  • 1200-watt single-serve automatic espresso machine designed for capsules
  • 19-bar pump; ThermoBlock heating system; electronic temperature regulation
  • Compact ABS housing; backlit control button; removable 34-ounce water tank
  • Capsules eject semi-automatically into collection container; 12 capsules included
  • Measures 10 by 6-1/2 by 11-1/2 inches; 1-year limited warranty

Nespresso C100T Essenza Single-Serve Automatic Espresso Machine Review

I have a number of machines including the Starbucks Sirena/Keurig and the C100T.

I purchased the Nespresso about a year ago after trying it at a local Williams and Sonoma store. It seemed a bit "fadish" at the time but it worked easily and I liked the product it produced. Now at a year of use, I think I can comment on the gizmo a bit better.

The Starbucks Sirena Machine at $400 is a dynamite machine but requires a learning curve to get the hang of. Sirena makes an awesome espresso/cappuccino but does require technique and ability to operate well. You might do well to get a training session from an experienced user.

The Nespresso machine however (C100T) works well for the absolute rookie. The quality of the drink is top notch and the foam indicates a near perfect espresso brew. Complaints about "not being hot" are ridiculous as any espresso machine that is operating correctly is within a couple degrees of any other machine. Fact is, you need to warm any espresso cup if you are wanting to keep a few scant ounces of fluid hot. A coffee mug will cool any normal espresso shot rather quickly (get some espresso cups and pre-warm them).

Noise: It sounds like a "mini Keurig" and is certainly quieter than many espresso machines. Just can not pump hot water at 19bar without some noise.

Cost wise, it is cheaper to run the Starbucks but the $400 in initial investment might just offset that a bit :) I have found the Nespresso to be easy to operate, mostly cost efficient to operate at up to $.63 per serving for premium cartridges and the most user friendly of all my machines. Even the Keurig can not compete with the speed and ease of use (hard to believe).

Where I think this machine might really shine is in a small private office. A big coffee machine is impractical but an daily dose of espresso is wanted? awesome choice due to small footprint of machine and ease of use.

Not to leave out the Keurig, it works marvelous although the coffee can tend to be a tad on the weak side (for the espresso lover). The "Tea" produced by the Keurig has the machine in a league of its own. K-cup tea is good for 2-4 cups and is marvelous.
*** Product Information and Review : Sep 27, 2011