The Capresso EspressoClassic Luxe 113 is a stylish and functional pump espresso maker with milk frothing and hot water dispensing capability. This model has the same design as the Capresso EspressoClassic, but its head has a mirror gloss chrome finish. This machine features quality construction with a stainless-steel ThermoBlock system, which heats the water quickly and maintains the optimum temperature for both brewing and steaming. The thermoblock eliminates a lot of the wait time for the machine to reach the proper brewing temperature. The stainless-steel-lined tubing system keeps the water from coming in contact with aluminum.

Standard equipment on the Capresso EspressoClassic Luxe includes the black base, a removable porta filter with three sieves, a 40-ounce removable clear water reservoir, a removable drip tray and a measuring scoop/tamper. The 1,200-watt motor provides the power behind the 18-BAR pump pressure.

The base has an attractive design, which narrows at the center and widens at the front, where the drip tray sits. We also loved the design of the porta filter, which glides effortlessly into place and even clicks as it locks into the ready position.

The control dials on this unit, while not self-explanatory, are easy to master. There are two buttons at the top of the machine. The first turns the unit on and begins the heating process. The second switches the function from brew/steam to hot water dispensing. A large round dial on the front of the machine lets you set the function (espresso brew, steam preheat, steam dispense or water dispense). Pictures are printed above each function for easy identification.

The preheat time for this unit was about a minute and a half. A large red indicator light glows when the correct temp has been reached. An easy turn of the dial starts the manual brew cycle, which runs until you return the dial to the off position. The actual brew time for each cup is 20-40 seconds. The recovery time is equally fast so you can brew cup after cup without waiting. You just need to empty and refill the sieve. To froth milk, there is a quick preheat step, followed by instant continuous steam delivered through the unit's special frothing wand. The dual-position wand delivers both steamed milk for lattes and frothed milk for cappuccino. If you'd like a cup of hot tea, the water dispensing setting delivers super hot water from the wand in a fast jet steam. Be sure your mug is deep enough as the fast spray of water can splash a bit.

Espresso making is a pleasure with the Capresso EspressoClassic Luxe. The brew head delivers two fine streams of espresso that enable you to fill one or two cups at a time. The unit's three sieves include two regular sieves (single shot or double shot) and a specially designed pod sieve. The sieves are all designed to produce maximum crema -- the rich foamy layer that forms on top of the espresso. We were thoroughly pleased with this unit's performance and noted that the crema layer was both thick and rich. The short brewing and recovery time means you can make cup after cup for serving to guests.

The Capresso EspressoClassic Luxe is a quality pump machine that delivers premium espresso coffee, as well as frothed or steamed milk and heated water for all types of specialty coffee beverages.


Pros: 18-BAR power pump, stainless-steel Thermoblock, three sieves for single shot or double shot or pod espresso making, fast preheating, turbo jet frothing wand
Cons: Pricey

Warranty
1 year, limited for household use