When Italians are passionate about something, really take it seriously. And when it comes to their espresso machines, there’s a big difference between very good and world-class. The La Pavoni PPG-16 Professional 16-cup espresso machine certainly takes the cake.
Features of the La Pavoni PPG-16 Professional 16-Cup Espresso Machine
It’s not made of gold, but for coffee purists, its value is beyond just a shiny piece of metal.
• It measures 16.2 x 4.5 x 12 inches and it weighs 15 pounds.
• This espresso machine operates with the use of levers complete with rosewood handles, and it makes up to 16 cups of 2-ounced espresso servings in one go.
• You get quick heat times with the 38-ounce boiler made from solid brass. There’s an internal thermostat as well, so there’s no need for a separate purchase.
• The piston operates on steam pressure, and you get a latte or a cappuccino from the dual frothing systems.
• It has the ETL listed mark, so it’s been independently tested to ensure it conforms to North American safety standards. It also comes with a one-year warranty.
• You get a demo DVD so you have an intro on how to use it properly.
Pros and Cons
Let’s put it this way: this little machine is a perfectionist. If you are a perfectionist too, then it’s a match made in coffee heaven. The good and the bad things about the La Pavoni PPG-16 Professional 16-Cup Espresso Machine are actually the same things. It’s fussy, and you’ll need a lot of practice to be able to get a great drink. And when we say a lot, we mean it. If you’re easily frustrated, then you’ll be dreaming about an automatic machine eventually. At the same time, the practice does help you make the absolutely perfect cup of espresso ever since the dawn of time. Also, you need to upgrade the tamper if you don’t know your strength. It comes with a plastic tamper, but you need 30 pounds of force. There are tampers you can buy which “click” when that force is achieved.
But the La Pavoni PPG-16 is just one part of your investment. You also need a perfect grinder, because if you don’t then this machine will be useless. You need an exact grind level, and pre-ground coffee may not cut it. If the grind is too fine, the coffee won’t drip or pour. If they’re too coarse, it will taste burnt. And that means another investment into a grinder which may cost a pretty penny.
All this for espresso? If you are shaking your head in disbelief, then obviously this coffee machine is not for you. But if the prospect of two decades of perfect espresso at your fingertips is something that excites you, then this is the perfect accouterment for your kitchen. Make the investment and your coffee shop (or your home) will be the talk of the neighborhood. They make shake their head at the cost, but they won’t ever refuse your coffee!