Italian coffee renowned brand Lavazza has introduced its latest innovation, the Lavazza Assoluta, a bean-to-cup espresso machine designed to enhance the brewing experience for both novices and aficionados. Announced last month, the Assoluta stands out with its unique feature: users can simply scan the barcode on their Lavazza coffee bean packaging using the Piacere Lavazza app. The machine then automatically adjusts its brewing settings to optimize extraction and flavor.
This technology aims to eliminate the often tricky trial-and-error process associated with brewing espresso, making it accessible for beginners while promising consistent quality. Early evaluations of the Assoluta suggest a mix of impressive aesthetics and functionality, but how effectively does it deliver on its promises?
Design and Setup
The Lavazza Assoluta boasts an eye-catching design, featuring a burnished bronze case complemented by glossy black and stainless steel accents. Weighing approximately 10 kilograms (22 lbs), it is one of the heftier machines available on the market. The review unit provided included half a kilogram of Espresso Barista Gran Crema, a blend of arabica and robusta beans that sets a solid foundation for testing.
Setting up the machine involves installing the Piacere Lavazza app on a smartphone, creating an account, and linking it to the Assoluta via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Once connected, users can conveniently scan the barcode on their coffee bag, allowing the app to send the suitable brewing temperature and time settings to the machine.
Despite its advanced features, the Assoluta offers only two grind settings: coarse and fine. This limitation could be seen as a drawback, given that many espresso machines provide numerous grind sizes to enable precise control over extraction rates. The machine advises users on which grind setting to select but does not automatically adjust it. Users can control the coffee’s intensity by rotating a dial on the bean hopper, allowing for customization within limited parameters.
User Experience and Coffee Quality
Upon powering the Assoluta and initiating the rinsing process, users are greeted with a variety of espresso options displayed on the screen. The machine accommodates different cup sizes, whether utilizing the main drip tray or a smaller fold-out tray for espresso cups. Initial tests reveal that the grinder and pump operate quietly, and the resulting double shot of espresso delivered a rich flavor with ample crema.
The Assoluta’s compatibility with a range of Lavazza coffee varieties offers the potential for diverse flavor profiles. Future tests will include the Espresso Italiano Classica, a 100% arabica blend known for its distinct taste.
Users are encouraged to stick with Lavazza beans for optimal results, as the machine’s functionality heavily relies on the app’s settings tailored to specific coffee types. While the Assoluta allows for minimal customization in terms of drink size and temperature, the options for adjusting aroma strength are limited to three settings: light, standard, and strong.
One notable feature is the Assoluta’s milk-texturizing system, which diverges from traditional methods employed by other espresso machines. Instead of drawing milk from a carafe, the Assoluta utilizes a large glass cup equipped with a steam pipe and whisk. Users fill the cup to a marked level, secure the lid, and position it correctly for the machine to begin steaming and aerating the milk.
The initial outcome of a cappuccino prepared with the Assoluta was good in flavor but fell short in foam quality. The milk was hot, yet the foam lacked the expected texture, raising questions about performance when using different types of milk. Despite its retail price of £699.95 (approximately $930 or AU$1,400), there remains a level of uncertainty regarding whether the Assoluta will meet the expectations of consumers accustomed to higher-end machines.
As it stands, the Lavazza Assoluta is currently available only in Europe, with inquiries made regarding its potential international release and pricing. Further testing will continue, and a comprehensive review will follow, comparing the Assoluta with other leading bean-to-cup coffee machines on the market.
