Coffee making is both an art and a science, deeply intertwined with technology. From the humble moka pot to intricate espresso machines, every brewing method reflects deliberate design and meticulous engineering—even filtered coffees require a certain technique.
In this embrace of innovation and tradition, a revolutionary machine redefines coffee-making. Enter the Vespucci espresso machine, a masterpiece from the Italian brand La Marzocco that’s not just one coffee maker but five in one.
A Florentine treasure. The Vespucci espresso machine resides at the Accademia del Caffè Espresso in Florence, a hub of coffee culture dedicated to education, research, and preservation of the beverage’s history. Founded by La Marzocco, a world-renowned espresso machine manufacturer, the academy features a museum, workshops, and hands-on demonstrations for baristas and coffee enthusiasts. The academy reflects Florence’s deep connection to coffee, a vital part of the city’s culinary heritage. In this temple to coffee, the Vespucci stands out—not just for its functionality but for its artistry.
The “Rolls-Royce” of coffee machines. Coffee lovers are no strangers to the sight of beautiful, imposing machines in specialty cafes. From Starbucks’ Clover Vertica to the Mastrena models in boutique cafes, these machines are marvels of industrial design. But the Vespucci espresso machine is in a league of its own.
Stretching wide enough for five people to brew coffee side by side, its scale is matched only by its elegance. The design features a sleek, reflective “façade” that diffuses light, adding sophistication to its imposing presence.
A five-in-one marvel. The Vespucci’s true innovation lies in its versatility. Equipped with five brewing heads and seven independent boilers, it functions as five specialized coffee machines combined into one. Each boiler operates individually, allowing precise temperature control for different brewing methods.
While all heads are tailored for espresso, they offer various preparation styles: conventional portafilter brewing, like high-end home espresso machines, and volumetric brewing, which uses automated water control for consistency. The Vespucci also has a manual pressure control, a hands-on approach for baristas who seek precision, and lever-operated brewing, a cam-based system that uses a manual lever to create nine bars of pressure.
The cost of exclusivity. As a one-of-a-kind creation, the Vespucci’s price is a mystery. However, La Marzocco’s commercial machines provide a glimpse into its likely cost. The Leva x1 is a mechanically operated espresso maker with lever technology, priced around $15,000. Another example is the GS3, a dual-boiler system designed for optimal brewing and steaming, starting at $7,500. The Strada x1, for its part, is an advanced volumetric machine, priced at $20,000.
The Vespucci combines elements of several La Marzocco models, including the Strada EP, Leva X, Strada AV, GS, and EE.
A symbol of coffee innovation. The Vespucci isn’t just a tool—it’s a training ground. Its lack of automation in certain processes challenges baristas to master its intricate features, embodying Florence’s dedication to preserving and advancing the art of coffee. This training aligns with Italy’s broader coffee traditions, where craftsmanship is celebrated.
While you can’t buy the Vespucci, its existence represents the pinnacle of coffee innovation. It blends artistry, technology, and tradition in a way that inspires professionals and enthusiasts alike, solidifying its place as a crown jewel in the world of coffee culture.
Images | Lamarsacoffee, Goldenbrown Coffee (YT)
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