I had to buy 2 of these. The first one leaked into the bottom of the carafe, which is a problem because the electronics to heat the water are in the carafe. I was able to find a Starbucks that would exchange the whole box for a new one. The replacement has a problem where the rubber ring on the bottom of the carafe does not stay seated properly: I need to push it back into place on occasion. Starbucks would not replace only the carafe: I had to pack the whole thing up to replace it for a brand new entire unit. This is just silly, and I have elected to live with it so I don‘t have to "season" another machine.
Having said that, I must say that I detest buying any Starbucks product. I went out of my way to buy a Solis coffee grinder because I didn‘t want the comparable one sold at Starbucks with their logo. I have wanted a vacuum pot for a long time, but have been able to only find antiques, or low capacity devices. I like the 10 cup capacity of this one. If Bodum marketed one with their name on it, I‘d exchange it in a heartbeat.
As for the coffee, it tastes better than any drip machine I have used. Having worked for a high-end coffee roaster, I know that water temperature is crucial for proper extraction. Home drip machines generally have a hard time achieving the hot temperature neccessary. Another great feature is that the brewing process is quicker than a drip machine. That means more instant gratification.
My pet peeve with the machine is that wheile the carafe is on the warmer with the lid closed, a bunch of condensation forms underneath the lid. When you pour that 2nd cup, the condensation mixes with the ciffee and weakens the strength a bit.
Yes, it was expensive, but I have to say that the coffee it produces is worth it.
