20 of 20 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Solid performance, August 30, 2005
This review is from: Gaggia 97001 Coffee Deluxe Espresso Machine with Automatic Milk Frother, Silver (Kitchen)
This is the 4th espresso maker that my family has owned in the last 10 years and has proven a solid performer. My husband has spent many months in Europe (specifically Italy) during those years and has commented that this machine comes the closest to producing authentic cappuccino as any he's tried. The machine itself is heavy, but fits nicely on the counter and is relatively easy to clean. The greatest positive is that it heats and reheats the boiler rapidly. The only negative consideration is that the frothing wand sometimes works too well and froths the milk before bringing the milk temperature up to an acceptable level.
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16 of 16 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Don't expect it anytime soon, although it's an excellent espresso machine, January 13, 2006
This review is from: Gaggia 97001 Coffee Deluxe Espresso Machine with Automatic Milk Frother, Silver (Kitchen)
Mine's been on order with Amazon for several months and I just got yet another notice that shipping is delayed by another month. Therefore, if you're willing to wait half a year for one, don't hesitate to order one. Well, don't hesitate too much, at least. ;)
As for the quality, it's superb! I have 2 friends with one and it still amazes me how blazing fast the Gaggia machine will produce a full load of espresso from a cold start--mere minutes. I've seen other machines take up to 15 minutes from a cold start and this is the hugest benefit besides the quality of the espresso itself. The machine has a few hoops to jump through in getting it going the first time, but it's a cinch from there on out.
IMHO, however, don't use anything but bottled water if you want consistent, high-quality, trouble-free espresso for many years w/o needing major cleaning. Why? 2 reasons:
1) Even the slightest amount of chemicals (flouride, chlorine, etc.) can make quite a noticeable difference in the taste, especially with light or medium roasted beans.
2) Minerals in the water accumulate over time and will convert even the easiest-to-clean machine into an expensive paper weight.
In summary, if you don't mind the long wait, this Gaggia machine is among the fastest and highest quality espresso makers under $1,000. Also, it's basically an upgraded version of their famous Classic model; it's a tad faster and easier to use.
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15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Simply the best!, August 28, 2006
This review is from: Gaggia 97001 Coffee Deluxe Espresso Machine with Automatic Milk Frother, Silver (Kitchen)
It took a little 'tweaking' before I fully mastered the art of espresso making. I tried to use the Perfect Crema rubber disc that came with the machine, but after inserting the disc into the portafilter, it adds so much thickness that the basket doesn't fit on top of it and therefore cannot be locked onto the brewing head. I called up customer service, they picked up the phone immediately and told me to throw it away. There were defects from manufacturer and they don't recommend anyone using the disc. Stick to the 'Golden Rules' that came with your instruciton booklet. And I have been making delicious capuccinos! The auto frother is simply magical. And it is very easy to clean. The machine is solidly constructed with metal. Although the dripping tray is made of cheap plastic. But no big deal, as long as the rest of the machine is well made. This is an excellent buy. Go for it!
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