I wish I could rate this lovely espresso maker higher, but it just isn't made that well. I have been using moka pots for years and wanted this size because I have a 3 cup and a 9 cup and needed this size. I wish I had bought the Alessi. The problem I have with the Vev Vigano Kontessa is that it boils over on the stove no matter how much I tighten it. I have tried several times to correct this even putting in a new washer, but nothing solved the problem. I think the pressure valve is perhaps located a bit too low in the pot...I am not sure what the problem is, but I cannot recommend this pot - even though the design is very pretty it doesn't perform. On a positive note, the merchant did replace this pot, but I have not tried it out yet. I really don't expect any difference and will update this review if the replacement espresso maker is better.