Gaggia Classic review
It's what a good espresso machine should be: simple, and capable of producing perfect espresso shots
There’s something pleasingly refreshing about the Gaggia Classic. In a word where other espresso machines are all about neat curves and polished metal exteriors, this coffee machine is unabashedly industrial looking.
From the plain front, to the simple switches, which look incredibly hard wearing, the Classic looks like something you’d find in a coffee shop. That’s no bad thing, as the Classic is designed for one job: make great-tasting espresso, simply.
While other espresso machines we’ve reviewed have gone for over-engineered group handles and filters designed to create foamier crema, the Classic is a pure espresso machine. It ships with Gaggia’s pro group handle, which is used on the company’s professional machines. This forgoes any clever tricks and is simply a filter and two large spouts.
The industrial look makes the Gaggia Classic look as though it means business
While other espresso machines may claim that you’ll get the perfect espresso with no knowledge, the Classic doesn’t. It’s pro group handle and looks tell you that you’re going to have to learn how to use the machine properly, but don’t let that put you off: it’s not complicated and once you’ve made a few shots of espresso you’ll have it down to a fine art, making some of the finest coffee you can get from a home machine.
Operating the Classic is simple, so it’s more about technique. Once you’ve turned on the machine a light turns on to let you know that the water’s at the correct temperature. For the best results you should warm your cup on the cup-warmer on top. It’s also worth running hot water through an empty filter and group handle, to prime the machine and pre-warm all of its parts.
When you’re ready, it’s time for the coffee to go in. It’ll need to be tamped down; you don’t need a lot of pressure, just enough to flatten and compress the coffee grounds.
Pouring a coffee is just a matter of flicking the hot water switch and the Classic kicks into action, pouring espresso into one or two cups, depending on the amount of coffee you put in.
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