Full functioned entry level super automatic for convenience seekers.
Positive Product Points
Does what it says: high quality espresso at the touch of a button. Grinds, tamps, brews and discards the puck. Easy clean up.
Negative Product Points
It‘s all plastic. Not for espresso fans who want total control over the art of brewing.
Bean storage in grinder isn‘t really airtight, it‘s a plastic lid. The water tank is tiny, but overall, the machine is pretty huge and requires a good deal of counter space.
Detailed Commentary
I picked this up at the unbelievable price of $200 from an Internet cooking retailer‘s August clearance sale, and I couldn‘t pass at the chance to have a super-automatic at this price.
Previously, I used a DeLonghi Pump model that was decent but quit unexpectedly. I had managed to get fairly good and consistent espressos from that machine, but found the process messy. It could also just be the machine though.
The Vienna de Luxe has a number of very convenient features: an easy to remove drip tray, internal dump box, easy to clean parts and an intuitive layout. Good instructions and video as well. It delivers what it promises: one button to great espresso.
Once you figure out your preferences for the grind and liquid volume (all controllable), you shouldn‘t have to mess around with the machine much to get a consistent, high quality and tasty brew. This machine does produce good crema and has good steaming ability.
All in all, I‘m very pleased with this machine, especially considering the bargain price I paid for it.
Buying Experience
Too bad Ourhouse.com is out of business, it was a great sale. Amazon purchased their kitchen inventory.
