The Espressione CC-151-Complete Coffee lets you enjoy a cup of quick-brewed crema coffee, espresso, cappuccino or latte in just a few easy steps. This compact machine stands about 14-1/2 inches tall and has a 10-1/2-inch-diameter footprint. We tested the CC-151B, which is styled primarily in black with silver accents. An all-silver version is also available as model CC-151S.

The CC-151 is sure to surprise you with its versatility. It can be used with traditional ground espresso, regular ground coffee, soft coffee pods or ESE espresso pods. We achieved excellent results with each type, including the regular coffee varieties, and the CC-151's high-pressure 15-BAR pump-driven boiler system delivered beautifully thick crema no matter what type of coffee was used.

This machine is somewhat unconventional from an espresso-maker standpoint. Instead of a removable portafilter that twists in place under the brew head, the CC-151 has an attached filter basket and three interchangeable filter sieves for use with different coffee types and quantities. A locking clamp on the front of the machine raises and lowers the basket to insert or remove the filter sieves. The design takes some getting used to, and it requires a not-insignificant amount of pressure to open and close the filter basket, but the results are certainly worth it. We achieved a rich, dark blend of espresso with a generous amount of frothy crema each time. Our only complaint was a bit of splattering of wet grounds if the basket was raised too quickly.

The CC-151B-Complete Coffee also proved to be an extremely effective pod brewing system. In addition, using pods virtually eliminated the mess we experienced when working with ground coffee. We especially liked that the machine can use regular soft pods that are available at your local market, so you can brew a fast cup of regular or decaf coffee that is nonetheless full-bodied and flavorful.

Two control buttons (preheat and brew) and a steam knob activate the various functions. For best results, you need to pre-warm the filter and cups. We noticed a 10-degree difference when the cups were room temperature versus when we preheated them by running plain hot water through the system. The CC-151's stainless-steel boiler regulates its internal temperature for consistent results whether you are using the brew function or the steam function to froth milk. Dual thermostats regulate the heat for brewing as well as steaming.

For a quick and tasty cup of coffee, espresso, cappuccino or latte, the sophisticated yet easy-to-use Espressione Complete Coffee CC-151 is a sure thing.


Pros: Stainless-steel boiler and 15-BAR pump; jet frother wand, dual thermostats fo brewing and steaming, can be used with regular ground coffee, ground espresso, ESE pods, or soft coffee pods
Cons: Wet grounds can splatter if filter basket is lifted too quickly

Warranty
1 year