Containing higher levels of caffeine – and steeze – than filter coffee, the espresso is a quintessential drink of Italy that’s revolutionised the way in which we consume our coffee.
Layered first with the heart as the bitter bottom layer, the body in the middle and the sweeter golden crema as the top layer, the espresso boasts complexity in not just aroma but texture.
Forming the foundations of your cappuccinos, long blacks, lattes and so on and so forth, the espresso is brewed by forcing near-boiling water through finely ground coffee with high pressure.
So, whether you’re wanting to hone your in-house barista potential or you’re endeavouring to tighten the purse strings by forgoing the local every morning, investing in an espresso machine surely won’t be the wildest idea you’ll have this year.
From cruisy afternoon cappuccinos to dinner party dessert macchiatos, we’ve curated an edit of home espresso machines to give you a daily dose of la dolce vita.
Five schmicko espresso machines for making at-home coffee
Breville the Bambino Plus
Breville the Bambino Plus, $619 (usually $729) at Breville
Ideal for kitchens with limited bench space, the Bambino Plus may be small in size but not in pizazz. Ready to rumble in three seconds, this machine features low pressure pre-infusion followed by 9-bar extraction delivered by its 15 bar Italian pump. Plus, if you’re a fan of a latte, the automatic steam wand does all the milk foaming for you.
Nespresso by Breville Creatista Plus capsule coffee machine
Nespresso by Breville Creatista Plus capsule coffee machine, $759.20 (usually $949) at Myer
If you’re an espresso head but you’re more about convenience than process, this coffee machine uses Nespresso capsule pods to deliver perfectly portioned java. With a fully automatic steam wand set to your preferred temperature, frothy milk for your cap or latte is all but a button push away.
Breville the Dynamic Duo
Breville the Dynamic Duo, $2099 (usually $2599) at Breville
Something of a barista, yourself? The Dynamic Duo allows for caffeinated experimentation while delivering on quality and flavour. With an included precision grinder, as well as a dual boiler heating system – for the espresso shot and instant steam for your milk – this machine brings the café to the home.
Sunbeam Mini Barista silver coffee machine
Smeg 50s retro style cream coffee machine
Smeg 50s retro style cream coffee machine, $469 at The Good Guys
For the retro-inspired countertop, this Smeg coffee machine features a 1950s profile, and extracts espresso in single and double shots with its 15 bar pressure pump. Use the in-built steamer for all your homemade cappuccinos.
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