Do we really need a new Nespresso machine? Apparently so. Objectively speaking, there’s nothing wrong with the existing Nespresso system, or Nestle’s Dolce Gusto; but because consumers are so demanding, here’s another option launching this week — the Nespresso Vertuo Plus — and one that’s smarter, and easier to use (if that’s even possible).
THE DESIGN
Like other Nespresso machines, this one is fairly slim, so it only takes up a small space on home kitchen countertops. There are four different colours: White, Cherry Red, Piano Black (featured in this review), and Titan (dark grey).
Above: The Nespresso Vertuo Plus on my kitchen counter.
The water tank and capsule container are large (compared to most home Nespresso machines), and the cup stand is adjustable to four different heights to accommodate cups of various sizes.
Above: The cup stand is adjustable to four different heights.
SMART TECHNOLOGY
The machine has to be turned on for the lid to open and close. Once powered on, just push the handle up, and the lid will automatically open. Similarly, push the handle down, and it will close.
Above: WITH THE LID OPENED.
Above: THE CAPSULE IS PLACED IN THE CENTRE.
Inside the machine is a barcode reader that will detect which capsule is inserted, and it will dispense the amount of water accordingly. For example, whether it’s 40ml for a Classic Espresso, or 414ml for a super-sized Alto.
THE COFFEE
There are 27 new flavours across five drink sizes: Espresso (40ml), Double Espresso (80ml), Gran Lungo (150ml), Mug (230ml), and Alto (414ml).
Above: The 27 new flavours exclusive to the Nespresso Vertuo Plus.
Above: Here, I’m Trying the Fortado (Gran Lungo, 150ml), an intense, full-bodied blend with notes of cocoa and oak wood.
Above: Close up of the coffee extraction.
What’s particularly special about this new machine is that it has the ability to create a beautiful crema on the top of the coffee; Nespresso refers to the crema as silky and generous.
Above: The beautiful crema on top of the coffee.
A new type of coffee called “Reverso” is also possible here; just pour milk into the cup first, and then let the coffee extract on top of it. This works well with the Gran Lungo (150ml) and Mug-sized capsules (230ml). The result is a rich, creamy texture to the drink.
Above: Mug-sized coffee (230ml, left) and Gran Lungo-sized coffee (150ml, right).
Cleaning the machine is easy too. Similar to other Nespresso systems, just run the hot water without any capsule inserted.
Above: Running hot water through the machine to clean it.
Above: Ahhh…
Nespresso Vertuo Plus, priced at $368 for the machine, and $438 for a Machine Bundle (inclusive of Aeroccino3 Milk Frother). visit WWW.NESPRESSO.COM/SG/EN/VERTUO-COFFEE-MACHINES-RANGE to buy and for more information.
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