expired Posted by TheDealsWatchers • Apr 21, 2023
Apr 21, 2023 4:22 AM
Item 1 of 1
expired Posted by TheDealsWatchers • Apr 21, 2023
Apr 21, 2023 4:22 AM
Lavazza Expert Classy Plus Single Serve Espresso/Coffee Brewer + 36-Ct. Capsules
+ Free Shipping$130
$310
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The volume of steamed milk typical of a latte is going to mask almost all the flavor profile differences, and the only difference in "strength" is going to come from the grams of coffee packed inside. Get the "2" marked capsules if you find them on a big sale, but for me personally, I think it's cheaper (and definitely makes a stronger latte, which I prefer), to just use 2 shots per latte (using the cheapest capsules I can find, which is always the imported stuff from Europe with the boring labels (Dolce, et al).
They also make LUNGO versions of capsules, which have several more grams than the "base" pods, but less than the "2" capsules IIRC. I've never tried those.
More FWIW stuff:
I originally bought the PLUS with the extra frother and mug, then decided I liked it enough to buy one for work, so I bought the non-PLUS version for home.
Possibly interesting notes between the two models:
- PLUS has noticeably better build quality, but not sure that really matters. A more beefy feel, a REALLY hefty handle on the top which feels like you could kill someone with it if you removed it from the unit.
- I don't consider the additional water tank size to be a benefit bc you should be using cold, fresh water every day anyway. So unless you are pulling double shot drinks for 3+ people a day, tank size is a non-issue IMO.
- I took the PLUS to work bc I don't have a frother there and wanted a more compact system. Use the non-plus at home because my refurb Cuisinart induction milk frother froths better than the best steam wand I've owned on several high end espresso machines. Micro foam to die for..and fast, no mess whatsoever. HIGHLY recommend this for milk drinks rather than a steam wand for several reasons. Also, the steaming is fine on the plus model, but like steam wands, actually (obviously) introduces steam, which means water, into your drink, weakening it. NOTICEABLY different flavor and strength for latte's or macchiatos between the two models bc of that alone (again, for milk drinks only, and comparing with a non-steamed milk using an auto frother).
Expert capsules are amazing...and an equally amazing price to go with. They are noticeably better IMO than the non Expert capsules.
If you buy the .35 ish imported stuff (Dolce, Rotondo, et al), I do think they are also a bit inferior to the non-Expert capsules that are made for the US market (Caffe Crema, the Top Class stuff, which is prob my fave outside of Expert ones), etc. So there are three quality tiers in my personal opinion, and are maybe unsurprisingly correlate with cost.
Overall though, I think the coffee in these and/or the delivery systems beats Nespresso - not by a massive amount (still not nearly as good as using a semi auto espresso maker), but since the machine and definitely the capsules are cheaper than Nespresso, it's a no brainer for me.
Best scenario for milk based coffee drinks (using this system): the base model machine (since it's cheaper) + whatever you prefer from the Expert line of capsules (use 2 of them if you like a strong drink), + an induction based auto frother. Cuisinart, Breville are two I have tried and love, sure there are others).
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they do but it seems they are oos most places
Vessel Kit for Classy Plus:https://www.lavazzausa.
As for "froth", the crema from the Lavazza is at least as good as the Original line. The Vertuo line seems to aerate the espresso, which is just weird.
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Several of the Lavazza Expert caps are REALLY good, with flavors and notes I've never picked up on in any other 'system'. Bit even the mid tier ones like Top Class and Caffe Crema are better than the best Nespresso caps.
Again, IMO and YMMV.
I'll even go so far to say that if you like your Keurig machine, get one of these since you can buy caps for around the same price as decent kcups (mid .30's say for Kirkland Pacific Bold which is very decent IMO), and just add a bit of hot water after 'pulling' your espresso shot. Instant Americano, and MUCH richer and more flavorful than any Kcup out there.
As for "froth", the crema from the Lavazza is at least as good as the Original line. The Vertuo line seems to aerate the espresso, which is just weird.
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There are recipes on the internet for the water to citric acid ratio. I do about a healthy teaspoon per quart. I've found homemade recipes that call for 1 tablespoon per 3 liters. I've also read a ratio of one part acid to 20 parts water. The citric acid solution won't harm your machine and doesn't leave a lingering aftertaste. Lavazza specifically mentions not to use vinegar.
Once you've made your solution, follow the instructions (download the manual too): https://www.manualslib.