Coffee Machines 85: Nespresso D90/S1 Essenza Single-Serve Manual Espresso Machine, Metal Review

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Below is my review of the Nespresso machine, and I love it. Couldn't be better and I highly recommend it. ONE THING THOUGH: make sure you compare the specs of the machine you buy, before you make the purchase. I bought the more expensive "cube" assuming it was better in some way (more power! yeah!) But it isn't. At the time I bought my cube, it was identical in spec (pump size, pressure, volume, etc.) to the other, cheaper machines offered. The only difference was form factor. So... if you're gonna get a nespresso, and I HOPE YOU DO, make sure choose which model to buy for the right reasons.

With all the new style espresso machines on the market (Tassimo, Keurig, Flavia, etc.) I was convinced that Nespresso was more of the same: a set of stylish gimmicks designed to convince you that this "espresso" (though not real at all) was "the real thing." It never is.

Which is why the Nespresso is so great. It IS the REAL THING. The capsules contain nothing more than espresso coffee grounds. The machine is simply an automated and miniaturized "real" espresso rig. And the results speak for themselves:

-- full bodied crema like you get from the best barista
-- speedy and HOT cups of espresso
-- the espresso produced is crisp and clear, full bodied, and smooth
-- my Sicilian wife and all her relatives (numerous, and mostly named "Maria" "Antonina" and "Dominic") all fully approve of the espresso that comes out. Comparing is to "Nonna's" would be sacrilege, but although those words have not been spoken yet, I am conviced the thought has crossed a couple minds. :-)
-- all this in under 30 seconds and within a square foot of counter space.

The frothing unit that comes with the machine is nothing short of black magic. I have NO IDEA what it does or how it does it, but the results will amaze you. And the best part is it's easy to clean: no sticky milk mess left behind to make you wonder who's gonna get sick first.

Coffee for this machine is 55 cents per cup, and Nespresso delivers online orders with astonishing speed (which is good, because you can't get the coffee from anyone else!). A bit pricey, but in this case you DO get what you pay for... and then some.
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Product Description

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 D90 Essenza Manual 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: Manual 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-ounce). Tray for used capsules. Back-lit control button

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