Time to get serious

[badgerbimmer]

After years of using a super automatic, albeit a high end unit, I decided it was time to get serious. My new S1 came last Friday and it has now been 7 days of the best Espresso of my life. A friend, GS3 owner, helped me dial my S1 and grinder, Baratza Vario, in. Didn't take long to turn out some great espresso! Very happy with my purchase after a year or so of research and deliberation. Here is my set up;

[Endo]

Congrats! Nice setup. I see you have the new Mini Mk 2.2 (embossed version).

Can't say there are many machines that can pump out espressos and lattes as consistantly well as the Vivaldi.

Doesn't compare at all to the "coffee bean soup" that comes from a super-auto...that's for sure!

[slo]

Congrats on the whole setup! Complete and coordinated! Very nice!

[badgerbimmer]

Thanks. of course now i am spoiled. We are on vacation. my daughter and i went down to the local Starbucks (what can I say) and had an Americano and a Latte, we looked at each other and made yuck face. What was once ok is now barely tolerable!

[jerrycl]

What was once ok is now barely tolerable!

Yes, my thoughts also after having the Vivaldi for 4 months. But it's been a hell of a learning curve to produce consistently good coffees. I have been amazed recently by how much difference a fresh roast makes in comparison to beans of unknown age - there is no comparison. Keeping the beans in sealed containers when you're not using them also seems to make a big difference. I've taken to buying premium blends from boutique roasters around Sydney and have been getting awesome results. Once you start producing really great coffees from the Vivaldi you just cannot go back to the slop that is dished up by most cafes.

Anyway, great set up and good luck.