Contemporary design espresso machine has stainless steel-lined Thermoblock with 18 bar pressure for rich crema espresso. Two sieves for single or double plus special sieve for use with pre-pack espresso PODs.
The Capresso Espresso Classic Luxe makes a great espresso, with the mellow flavor and beautiful crema that one might expect from a neighborhood cafe. Its continuous-steam design means it holds the steam in a reservoir, ready for running espresso shots or frothing or steaming milk for cappuccinos, lattes, or hot cocoa. The black-and-chrome chassis looks great on a kitchen counter. With a 1200-watt mechanism, this espresso machine combines power with good design. Two toggle switches on top of the machine set the machine to on/off and steam/hot water. A red light indicates the machine is on; an orange thermostat light tells when it's heated up and ready to go. And the selector knob on the front of the machine has settings for brew, steam, and hot water for tea or just for warming up cups for espresso.
The Espresso Classic Luxe comes with a full complement of accoutrements. A 40-ounce removable water reservoir has a filter and self-sealing valve; there's a handle to make it easier to lower it into place. The self-locking filter arm comes with three sieves; one for single-shot pulls, one for doubles, and one specially designed for Capresso coffee pods. The drip tray with grid insert can be easily removed for rinsing. And there's a handy measuring scoop that does double duty; it has a tamper at the other end for pressing down the ground coffee.
The frothing arm has detachable rubber components that need to stay clean for even frothing; detailed cleaning instructions are included in the enclosed booklet. The machine measures 10-1/4 by 11 by 12-1/2 inches; while in use, the filter handle extends an additional 5 inches. Capresso espresso machines come with a detailed instruction booklet and a year's guarantee, during which customers are offered free troubleshooting via telephone and free repair or replacement in cases of malfunction. --Garland Withers
