Machines
2023 was a year when not much happened. Not too many new releases and it really was a case of "Little to see here…" We'll keep it brief this year, but as always, if you have something in mind, just call for a chat. We call them as we see them and with 100% transparency.
Hit: Rocket Espresso Bicocca
At HOST 2023, Rocket Espresso released a volumetric prosumer machine: the Bicocca. This represents their first volumetric prosumer-focused machine in over 15 years and if initial interest from our client base is any indication, it's destined to be a big hit.
This machine will be a fantastic platform for customisation and we're just waiting to see what will be on offer in terms of tweakability. We're hopeful for control of pre-infusion time on this gorgeous machine.
It's a miss on the name, though. Check out the translation - you'll understand immediately. 🤦
We have one on order and it will be front and centre on the demo bench. Pricing is expected to be around $8k, and we feel that life will become somewhat challenging for the LM Linea Mini which sells to the same market. To our eyes, the Bicocca wins easily on looks and we have little doubt that it will do the job in the cup.
Miss: Sanremo You
12 months ago, this new offer from Sanremo was looking like it might be a hit. Unfortunately we still don't know. In all of this time it's been impossible to even look at one.
We even tried to buy one so that we could offer some informed opinion but for Melbourne, it was a case of the too-hard basket. Our local rep offered one for an hour to "evaluate". Pass. We need to look inside and drive a machine as our own for at least a week to come to any informed opinion.
Some owners complained of very noisy cooling fans (supposedly since rectified). We'll reserve judgment until we can actually get our hands on one for a proper evaluation.
Grinders: The Highlight of the Year
On the grinder front, 2023 was considerably more interesting. The mid-tier grinder market continued to evolve with meaningful improvements in retention, stepless adjustment and burr geometry at accessible price points.
If you're still running an older entry-level grinder, 2024 might be the year to reconsider. The step up in espresso quality from a quality burr grinder is the single most impactful upgrade available at any budget level.
As always - call us for an honest chat before you spend anything.