Ariete 1318R Moderna Espresso Machine, 15 Bar Pressure Pump, Barista Style Coffee Maker with Built in Grinder & Milk Frother, Ideal for Cappuccinos & Lattes, 800 cubic centimeters, Red

Product Information

Measuring 305 mm in width, 305 mm in height, and 300 mm in depth, this espresso machine has a compact design that can easily fit on countertops without occupying too much space. Weighing 6120 g, it is relatively lightweight for ease of use and transportation. This does mean you have a set pressure automated by the machine, so being adept with your jug and milk miniscus (probably not the technical barista term) is important. The steam light on the front of the machine flashes when steam is coming out. I followed the instructions and heated the machine by running one cup through without any coffee in the filter. Next I filled the portafilter for one, and fitted to the machine. I was a bit confused about pressing the button for water. There are one cup and two cup options but you have to press for a certain length of time to get the required amount of water. The instruction manual was not completely clear but it does have a handy table showing water distribution times and here it says you need 13–18 seconds for one cup. As I wasn't sure, I pressed the one cup button for about 13 seconds. I’ve had a fair share of coffees in my time, and I have to say that this espresso machine is one of the best, well, unless you spend ridiculous money on a luxury machine.

To make great coffee, you have to get four things right (aside from choosing the best beans of course). Firstly, your ground coffee needs to be the right level of courseness. Then you have to get the right amount in the filter. Next, you must tamp it down just enough – over pressed and you risk a bitter cup, under pressed and it may not extract under enough pressure to get a strong enough taste. And finally, you need to press the cup button for the right length of time to distribute the right amount of hot water for your drink. To clean the steam pipe, you can remove the external tubing and hand wash, using a small bottle brush for anything stubborn. Letting steam and/or hot water run through after each use will also keep it clean and milk free. From coffee beans to your favourite espresso in a few moments. Choose your favourite blend and enjoy the coffee you have always wanted in your own home. When I was introduced to the Ariete 1313 Espresso Maker, I was told this little-known brand (or little known in the UK) is the Vespa of the appliance world. Cute, reliable, and affordable, you aren't going to be doing the coffee equivalent of the MotoGP on this model, but you will get to learn the workings of a good coffee maker and what is needed to infuse the perfect espresso. And it doesn't look half bad on any kitchen counter.The machine comes with a milk jug for this very purpose, which is a nice extra you expect on premium brands and saves a bit of money and time buying your own. So that I can cover grinding in more detail, let's fast forward about 10 minutes and on a second attempt and I was gifted with a much smoother and more rounded cup of espresso. This time, I paid attention to the manometer and by skill or fluke I had managed to get the tamping, amount of coffee and water button time pressing just right, as shown by the gauge sitting in the 'optimal cafe' region.

I don't usually drink neat espresso, but the rich and slightly sweet short was very pleasant with a satisfying crema. Cleaning the Ariete 1313 is super easy. If you don't use the machine for a few days, you need to run a tank of water through the filter and water dispenser as you do before the very first use. Everything else just needs a wipe down from time to time and the removable parts can be washed in warm soapy water. The jug is dishwasher friendly as is the spoon and tamper, but the rest should really be hand washed. I made another espresso – a double this time – and steamed some milk using the wand on the side. I am no pro, but have this functionality on my current De'Longhi Scultura so get the basics. It delivered a silky hot milk that elevated my coffee to a nice long drink. I used oat, but have also used cow's milk for my other half on subsquent coffees. For not much more than my current machine (the De'Longhi Scultura) that has no integrated grinder and doesn't get on with finer grounds, I would be happy to swap to this machine – even if each cup does take a bit longer.If the machine needs descaling, all of the lights on it will turn red. This hasn't happened to us yet, but from watching videos, descaling looks similar to the standard clean, but you add a descaling agent to the tank first. Then follow up with a rinse through of clean water. If you know how to clean a coffee machine already, the process will be familiar. How does it compare to similar models? For over twice the price of the Ariete you can get the Sage Barista Express which is for those who are more serious about making top quality espresso at home. As well as some nice accessories thrown in like a temperature indicator on the milk jug and a razor dose trimming too to perfectly tamp your grounds, it also has settings you can adjust and preset to programme in your perfect espresso. There is digital temperature control but brew temperature can also be adjusted. The pre-infusion can be changed too. The tamper is built in which is a small thing but keeps it neat. This machine is consistantly applauded for making great coffee and leaving little to be desired in the way of added features, so without having tried for myself, it again comes down to whether you are willing to spend much more for that little bit more predicability. There is also the prestige of the Sage brand that adds to the price. We also gave it 4.5 stars. Should you buy the Ariete 1313 Espresso Machine? We decided to start by making a straightforward espresso with some ready-ground coffee. The machine has just four buttons – on, one cup, two cup and grind – as well as settings for the steam wand/water dispenser and grinding level. So, we expected it to be fairly simple to use. Equipped with a built-in grinder, the Ariete Moderna Espresso 1318 enables users to freshly grind their coffee beans, enhancing the flavor and aroma of each cup. It supports coffee making, cappuccino making, and espresso making, ensuring versatility and catering to different preferences.

The integrated bean grinder with 8 settings means you can enjoy the taste and aroma of freshly ground coffee every morning I have used dedicated electric coffee grinders and bean-to-cups where the process is all automated within, but never one where you grind straight into the filter. However, this is where I want to caveat that everything you are about to read is from someone who has not used this type of machine before. I consider myself an at-home coffee novice, having graduated from the school of pod machines, to using a fairly intuitive coffee maker that requires some measuring and tamping, but no further involvement beyond pressing the button to dispense water, or activate the steam wand.

Vintage espresso machine beige

The removable water tank and drip tray make it convenient to refill water and clean the machine after use. With the auto power off feature, users can rest assured that the machine will automatically turn off when not in use, promoting energy-saving functionality. I read the instructions again and realised that my best chance of making the perfect cup was by grinding my own beans for a slightly finer powder and starting again.