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Gaggia Carezza Espresso Machine
4.5 Out of 5
Note: This item has been discontinued and is no longer available for purchase.
Features
The Gaggia Carezza espresso machine is one of the hottest products in the low $200 price range. No other espresso machine manufacturer will bring you the pump power, heating capacity, brass components and pure results at this price. Hi-tech performance combined with simplified fingertip control takes the guesswork out of making delicious espresso and cappuccino at home or in the office. Each cup will be creamy, tasty, robust and rich with flavor. Gaggia’s new Turbo-Frother frothing wand is designed to help you get great froth with minimum fuss for perfect lattes and cappuccinos. Includes two stainless steel filter baskets (one and two shot), coffee tamper and 7g measuring scoop. Warranty Included! Available in Silver or White.
Features & Benefits: Coffee
Commercial Size and Style Portafilter Handle
Some of the most crucial elements for producing high quality espresso are influenced by the Style, Size and Construction of the portafilter. Style: This portafilter is designed like a commercial machine and works in the same way. The coffee is ground fine and is tamped (pressed) firmly into place. Size: The size of the portafilter is also the same as a commercial machine. Is has a large diameter (58 mm) so that the water is distributed evenly over a wide surface area. Construction: The portafilter is made up of two parts, the handle and the filter holder. The handle is made of high quality plastic. The heavy chrome plated brass filter holder keeps the temperature stable throughout the entire brewing process, therefore producing a quality cup of espresso.
Commercial Brewing Group
This is the portion of the machine that the portafilter locks into. It is made of chrome plated marine brass which provides a superior brewing environment through maximum heat stability and component longevity.
Boiler
The Gaggia boiler system is very unique. It is designed of highly conductive aluminum with two heating elements. The heating elements are imbedded into the exterior sides of the boiler, providing even heat distribution. Having the highest wattage system available, incorporated into a low volume boiler (3.5 ounces) provides excellent temperature stability and will heat up quicker.
High Quality Controls with Temperature Ready Light
The Carezza has three rocker arm switches. The one on the top is the main power switch. The middle one is the steam switch that when turned on, will heat the boiler to steam temperature. The bottom switch operates the pump and is known as the brew switch. To start the brewing process just turn on the switch, wait until you have reached your desired volume and then turn of the switch. There is an indicator light that is illuminated whenever the boiler is up to operating temperature.
Features & Benefits: Frothing and Hot Water
Hot Water Dispenser
If you want hot water for any reason, be it Hot Chocolate, Tea or Americanos, it is very easy to do. Just turn on the pump (brew) switch and open the steam knob. Hot water will start to stream out.
Improved Turbo Frother Steam Wand
The Carezza comes equipped with a new Turbo Frothing steam wand. The new design makes great froth every time with no problems.
Features & Benefits: Care, Maintenance & Other
Water Reservoir
The large removable 44oz reservoir can be refilled from the top any time during the operation for an endless supply of coffee or steam.
ESE Pod Capable
Comes ready to use with pods or ground coffee. Use the single shot filter basket with Easy Serve Espresso (ESE) pods. Pods are single serve prepackaged shots that are designed to be quick and clean.
Thermostat and Safety Switches
The Carezza has three temperature controls. There are two thermostats and one high limit. There is one thermostat for maintaining brewing temperature and one for maintaining steaming temperature. The high limit will turn off the power to the boiler in the event of a malfunction this will prevent the boiler from over heating.
Housing Construction
The entire housing is made of a high-impact, heat resistant polycarbonate. The drip grate is made of stainless steel.
Average Customer Rating
4.5 out of 5
(49 Customer Reviews)
4.5 out of 5
(49 Customer Reviews)
Rated 5 out of 5
Posted By:
Valerie Baxter
12/09/2008
Has owned for:
More than 1 year
Ability Level:
Coffee Lover
Great Machine that has really gone the distance!
I have had my Carezza for many, many years - I think at least 7 years but have actually forgotten exactly when! This was my first machine and it is still going strong after almost daily use. I highly recommend that you get a copy of the "Guide to Gaggia" book and follow its brewing and maintenance directions.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
More than 1 year
What's Best About this Product?
Makes great espresso and does a decent job of steaming milk. Perfect for the household that only needs to make one or two 16oz drinks at a time.
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
Play with the bean grind to maximize flavor and brew time - can make a big difference. If you are making multiple drinks with this machine, you should prime the machine between every 16-20oz milk steaming.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Coffee Lover
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Usually buy from local roasters - Ethiopian Yirgacheffe, Sumatra, 100% Kona, and also from Creekside out of Alberta, Canada (great coffee!)
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
I'm a mocha drinker and the whole process start to finish (brew shots/steam milk) takes about 12 minutes which is a bit slow. I'm sure there are faster ways and machines but this machine has lasted forever for me!
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Have used friend's more expensive machines....
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
Expensive conical burr type
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
Maestro
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 5 out of 5
Posted By:
Dionna Smith
11/01/2008
Has owned for:
1 - 6 months
Ability Level:
Coffee Lover
Great Machine, Great Coffee, Great price. Neighbor has Expensive machine ($2000.00) Think this one makes better coffee!! Use Lavazza in blu for great crema.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
1 - 6 months
What's Best About this Product?
Easy to use.
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
Use a good espresso bean.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Coffee Lover
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Los Gatos Coffee roasting co
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
Clogged after first few uses - need to make sure you clean in well in between.
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Delonghi
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
cusinart
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 5 out of 5
Posted By:
Larry Almeida
07/28/2008
Has owned for:
More than 1 year
Ability Level:
Coffee Lover
Gaggia Carezza--Great inexpensive machine
I purchased the Gaggia Carezza in February of 2006. I liked it right away, but decided I needed to really give it a work out before I wrote a positive review. Well, it's been 2 and a half years now of almost every day use and it has just been a great little machine. I'm sure I could make my daily cappuccino much quicker with a more a expensive model, but for the reasonable cost of this espresso maker, I don't mind taking a little extra time and getting a great cup. I couldn't be happier
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
More than 1 year
What's Best About this Product?
Great espresso at a great price
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
Experiment with getting the grind just right for espresso. Read all the instructions and take time to get to know how it works. Clean it carefully after each use.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Coffee Lover
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Cravens Morning Glory Whole beans
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
Quicker
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Krups
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
Blade grinder
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
Not sure--very old
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 4 out of 5
Posted By:
Brian Gorby
03/16/2008
Has owned for:
More than 1 year
Ability Level:
Connoisseur
Great starter
Good starting semi-auto machine. I've owned for almost 5 years and am about to upgrade. If you're considering getting one of those $100 steam-pressure-only machines, go with the Carezza. It's kind of noisy and kind of drippy, but it makes solid espresso. Steaming is an art, but the Carezza lets you get away as an amateur as long as you're not trying to do super fancy latté art.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
More than 1 year
What's Best About this Product?
The price for the quality of espresso it produces
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
The grinder is more important than the machine. Go with a burr or pods only, otherwise you'll have wasted your investment in the machine.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Connoisseur
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Local roasted, ESE pods
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
It's drippy, somewhat noisy, and not the most aesthetically pleasing, but again, you can't beat the price.
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
Burr
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
Gaggia MDF
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 4 out of 5
Posted By:
Frani Hahn
11/24/2007
Has owned for:
More than 1 year
Ability Level:
Beginner
Gaggia Carezza Under $200
Our daughter bought us this machine as a gift and we loved it so much that we are purchasing one for her this year! Never have any problems so I will definitely repurchase it at Whole Lattelove.com
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
More than 1 year
What's Best About this Product?
I love the rich layer of crema! The price is incredible for a great basic espresso machine.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Beginner
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Illy , Kimbo
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
Just as drippy as most machines.
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Krups & Rancilio
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 5 out of 5
Posted By:
Joe Klingler
06/30/2007
Has owned for:
More than 1 year
Ability Level:
Beginner
Gaggia Carella
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
More than 1 year
What's Best About this Product?
Great machine for the money. I have been using it happily for more than two years. I love it with Esse Cafe.
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
I discovered that you can increase the water brewing temp by switching on the steamer switch just prior to activating the pump. Sometimes I like the taste of the espresso with the higher temp. The longer you wait to pump, the higher the brew temp. A little experimentation is needed. As others have mentioned a good grinder is essential at any temperature.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Beginner
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Esse Cafe (The best!!)
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
I am not crazy about the plastic steam tip but I do not really think about it these days. I would like to see a traditional steel wand.
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Various
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
Burr
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
Solis
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 5 out of 5
Posted By:
Mark Woerner
04/15/2007
Has owned for:
More than 1 year
Ability Level:
Connoisseur
A durable machine
A well-built machine with the same internals as other machines costing much more. Need to be sure to get the correct grind and tamp, and has worked well in daily use for over 2 years.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
More than 1 year
What's Best About this Product?
Great value, dual element boiler system is a plus. Pump has proven to be very durable.
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
Be sure to refill/flush the boiler after steaming by running about 4-6 oz. of water through the steam wand and brew group (without portafilter). Clean the screen above the brew group every few months.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Connoisseur
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
whole bean espresso roast
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
Frothing wand/steam valve drips some water. Buy a better tamper. Due to the dual use of the boiler (brewing and steaming), some time lag is required to refill and reheat the boiler. This is only an inconvenience if you are making multiple drinks where steaming is required. The drip tray doesn't have much capacity.
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
none
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
Burr
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
Baratza Virtuoso
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 5 out of 5
Posted By:
Colleen Richards
01/03/2007
Has owned for:
Less than 1 month
Ability Level:
Beginner
Simply the BEST
I am so happy to have found your great website and I love my new machine. Easier and faster than any machine I have used in the past. Price point is superb and the CD which was included made my first cup and everyone after BETTER than what I was purchasing at Starbucks everyday.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
Less than 1 month
What's Best About this Product?
Ease of use and most definitely the EXCELLENT and always perfect espresso/cappucino I can now make.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Beginner
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Lavazza Blu
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
Nothing
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Delonghi and Mr. Coffee
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
None
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
None
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 4 out of 5
Posted By:
John Andrews
10/19/2006
Has owned for:
1 - 6 months
Ability Level:
Coffee Lover
great value
I've had this model for a few months now and I am very happy with it. It produces good, consistent, espresso (with Lavazza Blu) and is a great value for the price. I was originally looking for a machine with the old-style, all-metal frothing wand because I don't believe in messing with a design that already works. However this frothing wand works very well and is quick and easy to remove and clean. I was also considering the three-way valve to get away from the problems of the soupy grounds that some machines leave behind. This one does leave some water on top of the grounds after pressing but it is not nearly as bad as the types that restrict the flow through the portafilter. I'm not sure that another $250 for a three-way valve is worth it, you are paying for convenience not taste. I spent three years in Naples and my landlady made great espresso with a $20 stove top pot.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
1 - 6 months
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
Lavazza in Blu is definitely the best pre-ground coffee for this machine. It always produces crema and it is available on other sites like Sovrana for less than half the cost. Sorry WLL, this is the best site to learn and select a machine but $11 a can for Blu?
My Experience With Using This Product:
Coffee Lover
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Lavazza in Blu, pre-ground
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Krups
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
Good quality pre-ground coffee is just fine. I have an espresso nearly every morning and I want to spend my time actually enjoying the coffee not working on it.
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 2 out of 5
Posted By:
Anthony DiFiore
10/17/2006
Has owned for:
More than 1 year
Ability Level:
Connoisseur
Long Term Gaggia Use
Also see "helpful hints below". I've had this model for 3 yrs, but it's time for it to go. After reading the other reveiws, they are correct, excellent buy, but for short term use only. I owned a Gaggia Espresso before this and it lasted 3 and half years. The Carezza makes excellent coffee after you learn how to, however, it will drip or stream worse after about a year and a half AND you will wait longer for the steam to reach a good pressure. The piece that causes dripping is called a "group valve assembly". It's just not made well. Bottom line, spend the money on a better machine. Gaggia makes up 50% of italy's machines including commercial industry. This a pay more get better type of product.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
More than 1 year
What's Best About this Product?
Easy to use.
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
It's NOT always the machine. If you want EXCELLENT espresso you must learn the 4 "P's". 1) Proper Roast, 2)Proper Grind, 3)Proper Temperature, 4)Proper Water. These all work together to get the right flavor. If you want espresso, make sure you're buying espresso roasted beans. Set your grinder anywhere from 10 -5 for espresso,depends on your taste. A good machine will reach proper temp.. ALWAYS use purified water especially if you live on the south east coast, however, depending on where you live, spring water is just as good as long as there's no impurites in the water. Ever wonder why most coffee's are bitter? Two main reasons - Impurities in the water and beans where NOT ground fresh. When you "pre-grind" good beans the oil dissipates loosing the flavor. Keeping beans whole and grinding just before you brew or within a few hours, retains the true flavor of the coffee. ALWAYS use a burr grinder. I use the Gaggia MDF, excellent. Quiet, no mess, no static retention. I bought all the cheap stuff. Yes, they work, for about 10 months or less. I didn't even know what static was until I saw the difference owning a good burr grinder. Myth - coffe in the freezer lasts longer. Actually it makes it worse because now you have frozen coffee. Don't do it. Keep beans in a sealed container or in the warmest part of your fridge. As long as the beans are in a dry environment, they will last or maybe you shouldn't buy so much coffe at once, how about that?...Enjoy. Any questions you may email me at xzfhg@yahoo. I gotta go shop for a new machine now.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Connoisseur
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Fresh ground Espresso beans.
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
Internal components so they last. Group valve needs redesign to stop the drip.
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Gaggia Espresso
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
Gaggia MDF, Burr Grinder and it's the best
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
Gaggia Carezza
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 5 out of 5
Posted By:
Catherime Belmont
09/28/2006
Has owned for:
1 - 6 months
Ability Level:
Coffee Lover
Carezza White Gaggia Refurbised
What a great deal, this refurbished model was in perfect condition! Pleasure to use a Gaggia. The heating of the machine does take short time, you get use to it quickly. The parts are well made and the streaming head works like a dream. Does drip as others have stated, I keep a sponge near by. Creama is the best, the taste is soooo good. Buy this machine,new or refurbished, it's worth the price.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
1 - 6 months
What's Best About this Product?
The parts are professional grade and the weight of the machine is solid.
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
Make sure the grounds are tapped down fairly tight before inserting handle into machine.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Coffee Lover
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Peets Dark Espresso
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Krups
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 5 out of 5
Posted By:
Chuck Bogardus
09/28/2006
Has owned for:
Less than 1 month
Ability Level:
Coffee Lover
Even Homer could make good shots...
Yow! I didn't know it was that easy! I love the pump! Took maybe two tries, and I'm still figuring out this foamy dealie (but getting better...), and this thing whups the kid at the local coffee shack like a rented mule. Yeah, I know I'm using the "wrong" coffee, but I like the end results...
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
Less than 1 month
What's Best About this Product?
You pusha da button, you getta da double shot...
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
Let it warm up for a few, and you're golden.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Coffee Lover
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Some hawaiian that I generally like.
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
Needs to be taller so that the idjit typing this doesn't spill stuff getting under the steamer spout... For that matter, how about a little more room under the shotglass spout(s)? Also, I'm now drinking WAY too much coffee now... Oh, wait a minute... There's no such thing as too much coffee...
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
The old thing that 'sploded all over my kitchen (replaced by this wonderful thing), and a Krups for the stuff that you pour instead of slice...
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
burr
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
Krups and cuisinart
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 5 out of 5
Posted By:
Erik Wiklund
05/27/2006
Has owned for:
Less than 1 month
Ability Level:
Connoisseur
Title? Hmm, what should I put here?
Incredible bang for the buck. Has the same components and performance as some of the Gaggias costing more than twice as much. Comes with a very cool demonstrative DVD, so getting familiar with the machine's easy. In about five tries I was making perfect double shots.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
Less than 1 month
What's Best About this Product?
I like best the feeling that I don't think I could make a better cup of espresso or cappuccino with any other machine.
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
Our water in Florida is hard, so I'm using distilled water (99 cents a gallon) so I'll never have to descale the Carezza. Also, many complain that the steam wand's too low, but I find it the perfect height and configuration -- you can put a regular-sized coffee cup or mug under the wand, angle the bottom of the cup to rest on the drip tray, and the wand goes down just far enough... hands-free operation!
My Experience With Using This Product:
Connoisseur
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Illy, Lavazza, Barnie's Haitian Bleu, Barnie's Kona Blend, Barnie's Kenya AA, Barnie's Organic Costa Rican. But mostly Illy whole bean.
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
Okay, its housing is plastic and it rattles a bit as the machine does its thing. Big whip.
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
None.
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
Raymond Burr.
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
Chintzy little Braun. But just today I ordered from WLL a Rancilio Doserless Rocky -- can't tell you how excited I am about it. Illy to Rancilio to Gaggia... oh, my.
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 4 out of 5
Posted By:
Eric Rubenstein
05/21/2006
Has owned for:
1 - 6 months
Ability Level:
Connoisseur
Outstanding value for non-HX machines
Yes, I'm nuts. I have owned and used extensively every single machine I listed, so I consider myself fairly knowledgeable on what's good and what's bad about espresso machines. My love affair with homemade espresso started in 1997 with a Saeco Superauto and I haven't looked back since! My current stable of machines/grinders includes the Marcuzzi Office, my new Carezza, a Solis Maestro and Rancilio Rocky. Why would I go with a realtively cheap Gaggia when I own a semi-commerical HEX machine? My wife and I live in a small house that we've had for sale for a while. It's small. So a full-fledged Marcuzzi and Rocky set-up swallows fully 1/3 of my usuable kitchen counter, making an already-small house even smaller. Something had to go, so upstairs to the attic went my Marcuzzi and Rocky to remain until we got a contract on the house. I was without my espresso and cappas for about 3 weeks when I said to myself "this is not gonna work." Perusing the WLL Outlet I found a gray Carezza for $150 delivered. I bought it thinking, "how can my wife be opposed to such a relatively tiny (and cheap) espresso machine?" I keep the Maestro under the kitchen counter anyway for drip coffee, so I justified the expense thinking I'll pull everything (knockbox, tamper, grinder) from under the cabinet every AM and replace when done. It arrived and I was impressed with its heft considering it's made of plastic. The innards, as is well-documented, are allegedly identical to the rest of the Gaggia home line including their top-of-the-line Classic (I haven't opened the machine yet to verify, being familiar with the Classic's layout myself). I filled it up, flushed it twice with full reservoirs of clean water, then waited for morning to arrive. (I learned the virtues of patience when a new espresso machine arrives from my early days... don't make espresso at night unless you plan on staying up all night as well). Morning came and I pulled everything out. I dialed down the Maestro and ground straight into the 58 mm Gaggia portafilter. Leveled and tamped and locked it into the machine after doing the old Gaggia temp-surf trick... and then hit the brew switch. Out came a creamy espresso which looked good enough to drink as-is. I tried it: sour, a symptom of a still-too-cool machine. Running it again with the above ritual, the second cup was downright close to the output of the heat-exchanging Marcuzzi. I was relieved! I could get 90% of the shot quality of a prosumer machine for $150. Could this be true? I, unlike others who despise the froth-aiding sleeve, didn't find it objectionable. I find it to make servicable, creamy froth in a 12 oz frothing pitcher from about 6-7 ozs cold 2% milk. Can I make latte art like I can do on my HEX machine? No. But sometimes I can get close, and close is good enough for the price I paid. I wouldn't want to froth milk with this machine in anything larger than a 12 oz. pitcher, however.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
1 - 6 months
What's Best About this Product?
COST!, 58mm brass portafilter, fast warm-up and steaming times, size, did I mention PRICE?
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
Don't believe the machine only needs 6 minutes to warm-up. Sure, the ready-light comes on in about 4 minutes but the portafilter needs at least 15 to get to proper temp. Give it time! Further, the machine does not have a 3-way solenoid valve -- a necessity when making multiple shots quickly. A 3-way valve releases the pressure in the portafilter immediately after the shot stops, which allows immediate, clean removal of the PF. I've found that unlocking the Gaggia PF just enough that steam audibly escapes is a great way to allow relatively quick, clean removal. Seconds later you can remove the PF without a mess. Also, froth only in a 12 oz pitcher and be sure to use 6-8 ozs. of cold milk. Keep the nozzle all the way at the bottom of the picther as well, which gets the milk rolling as opposed to just steaming the froth at the top. After a steam session, you have to (or should) refill the boiler to keep it full for next time. I found running water through the steam wand was preferable to running it through the group head. I heard a terrible, plasticky sort of cracking once when I attempted to refill the boiler by running through the group head -- not good. Please also remember -- if you're not getting crema-laden shots -- It ain't the Gaggia's fault!
My Experience With Using This Product:
Connoisseur
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Homeroast from CCM Coffee in Tampa and Costco in-store roasted blends.
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
Miniscule drip tray only allows 1-2 espressos/rinse jobs before you have to dump it.
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Saeco Vienna, Gaggia Classic, Rancilio Rocky, Espressione XP1, Expobar/Marcuzzi Office, now Carezza
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
burr, conical and flat
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
Rancilio Rocky and Solis Maestro
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 4 out of 5
Posted By:
Laura Field
05/19/2006
Has owned for:
6 - 12 months
Ability Level:
Coffee Lover
This is my first real espresso machine, but I have tried a few others. For the price, this one is still my top choice. I haven't been back to Starbucks in months (my espresso is better!). Not too hard to learn. The hardest part was figuring out why the "Golden rule" wasn't happening for me, and why my crema was so thin. (In my case it was the grinder.) Now that I have been doing it awhile, the whole process is automatic, except for experimental variations (which is fun). I am in no hurry to get a super-automatic EXCEPT when there are 6 people around the table waiting for their espresso. If I upgrade someday, that would be why.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
6 - 12 months
What's Best About this Product?
That I don't have to to Starbucks anymore! It has paid for itself many times over.
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
Watch the CD - it is way more helpful than the manual. Also get a good grinder right at the start (see comments under grinder). To help get you started, get a book like "The Espresso Bartenders Guide", or "Espresso Quick Reference Guide", and go through some articles on this web site.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Coffee Lover
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Recently bought Java Joe's espresso deluxe, and am now spoiled. Have tried about every bean available at Starbucks and Sam's Club. 8^)
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
Raising the frothing wand would help - the machine needs to sit over the edge of the counter in order to slip the frothing pitcher in and out. Also I have never been able to get JUST steamed milk, or even milk without half of it being froth.
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Gevalia carafe for non-espresso drip coffee (sometimes that still happens), Starbucks french press. No other pump espresso machines.
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
Capresso Infinity conical burr grinder. Previously used a Cuisinart burr grinder set as fine as it would go, and then 8-10 more seconds in a blade grinder. It took awhile to figure that out, and was still not the best. I am very happy with my Capresso grinder.
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
Capresso Infinity
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 4 out of 5
Posted By:
Harry Lim
04/06/2006
Has owned for:
1 - 6 months
Ability Level:
Coffee Lover
This is my first real espresso machine. I bought the black one. The look is acceptable in a modern kitchen. Its outer casing is made of hard plastic material (not metal). Overall the machine is easy to use eventhough it still require some skill getting used to as one needs to apply 30 lb pressure and can only make for one person at a time making it quite laborious if one has guests around. After a few months of use I still do not make consistent crema. I am toying the idea of investing in a good grinder which costs just as much as this machine. I am also wondering if it might just be better to spend the money on a fully automatic machine such as the Saeco Vienna (costs about $500) which takes the guestwork out, grinds the beans each time you make a cup and, most importantly, takes care of the rather laborious process of making a cup of coffee.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
1 - 6 months
What's Best About this Product?
Price, frothing mechanism
My Experience With Using This Product:
Coffee Lover
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Illy preground espresso.
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
Don't know
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Have tried the cheaper steam-pump driven machines that do not last!
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
preground coffee (I do not have a burr grinder just as yet)
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
n/a
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 5 out of 5
Posted By:
Ethan Etnyre
03/17/2006
Has owned for:
6 - 12 months
Ability Level:
Connoisseur
This machine makes a serious cup of esspresso
This is a great machine. Excellent espresso from the second cup on. The firest cup usually si more bitter and less fruity/roasty.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
6 - 12 months
What's Best About this Product?
Amazing value. It is too easy to spend way too much.
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
Excellent quality beans. Peet's Major Dickason's and Esspresso Forte are excellent. You must play around with the pressure/tamp, and the degree of grounds to perfect your brew.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Connoisseur
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Peet's Major Dickason's Starbuck's Esspresso roast Uptown Esspresso (local roaster)
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
better first shot
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Krups
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
Starbuck's burr
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
as above
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 4 out of 5
Posted By:
Mark Kreitz
02/09/2006
Has owned for:
1 - 6 months
Ability Level:
Coffee Lover
Perfect machine for beginners
Great first machine for the price ($199). I didn't want to spend too much on my first one so I started with this machine and a cheap blade grinder. Grinder was OK for a beginner, but I soon outgrew it and got the Rancilio Rocky (highly recommended). Espresso, capucinnos and lattes are good most of the time. Quality of drinks with this machine depends more on quality of coffee beans purchased and the grinder setting. Able to get good crema with good beans. I definitely recommend this machine to any first-time buyers.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
1 - 6 months
What's Best About this Product?
Heats up quickly. Easy to find the right grind setting. Nice, solid portafilter.
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
Buy a cheap digital scale on eBay ($15). I use it every time to weigh out 14-15g of beans. I use a setting of 4 clicks from the real zero point (not the labeled zero point) on the Rocky. This gives me very good double shots in 27 seconds. Sand out most of the nubs on the large plastic frother piece. This will reduce the air holes and draw in less air when frothing milk. Buy a better tamper (58mm, I think).
My Experience With Using This Product:
Coffee Lover
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
whole bean espresso & french roast from Tully's, Starbucks, and Metropolitan Market.
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
Drip tray should be deeper, to hold more liquid. Steaming wand should be longer. The plastic frothing adapter bites. First, it fell off (more like exploded off) every time I tried to steam milk. Apparently, a small piece was missing (small plastic collar). Very snug fit now. Also, stock frother draws in way too much air, resulting in too much frothed milk. So I modified the frother to draw in less air. Works much better now, but still not great. Plastic tamper is junk.
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Gaggia Paros
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
burr
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
Racilio Rocky, doserless
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 5 out of 5
Posted By:
Lisa Whitney
11/04/2005
Has owned for:
Less than 1 month
Ability Level:
Coffee Lover
Love this machine!
I love this machine! Espresso quality is great with the perfect layer of crema. Machine is easy to use. I like to make cappuccinos so am happy that it makes great foam and gets milk up to a hot temperature. I also like the instant hot water feature. The instructional CD was so much better than reading through a manual with video demonstrations.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
Less than 1 month
What's Best About this Product?
Makes a great drink every time!
My Experience With Using This Product:
Coffee Lover
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Starbucks ground espresso and pods.
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
The steam wand is too low so it's difficult to get the milk pitcher under without spilling. This is pretty annoying.
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Krupps (friend's machine)
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
I had Starbucks grind.
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 4 out of 5
Posted By:
John A Lapham
10/28/2005
Has owned for:
More than 1 year
Ability Level:
Coffee Lover
Gaggia Carezza
I've been using the Carezza for a year and a half. I had a Krups espresso mini for over ten years, used it occasionally. Unsatisfactory. The Carezza, however, is wonderful. Perfect for one or two person households. I use it daily. Very short learning period. Takes a little longer to brew than drip, but that's part of the espresso experience. I would urge all those looking for the complete coffee experience to roast and grind their own. You can control the process from start to finish, and the result is better than anything from Starbuck's. Wholelattelove has roasters and grinders, and green beans are readily available on the web, usually for less than half retail price.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
More than 1 year
What's Best About this Product?
The taste of the coffee. Gives you a lift that feels like it should be illegal.
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
The temperature light seems to have a tenuous connection to the temperature of the water in the boiler. I give it five minutes to get started, for coffee, and then when it's time to steam milk, just wait for steam to come out of the machine. I still take it apart for cleaning occasionally, but I've found that running a blank shot and brushing the shower head/gasket assembly after each use is really all that it needs. Only takes a minute, quickly becomes part of the routine. The useless plastic splitter gizmo on the portafilter which gets in the way of a cappucino cup is not pressed in, as it looks, but is threaded and easily unscrews. Mine now resides in the cupboard next to the equally useless single shot filter basket. The cheesy white paper cover on the drip tray starts to peel after a couple of months, whereupon you can remove it. Looks better without. It's tempting to steam the milk first, if you're using it, so as not to let the espresso sit, but then you have to cool the boiler down or you'll have bitter coffee. Anyway, what heat the coffee loses while you're steaming will be addedback by the milk.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Coffee Lover
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
home roasted
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
Not much, really. It drips a little, makes a little noise, you get used to it.
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Krups espresso mini
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
conical burr
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
Solis Maestro
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 5 out of 5
Posted By:
Michael Allan
10/09/2005
Has owned for:
Less than 1 month
Ability Level:
Coffee Lover
Gaggia - Good machine for good price.
Some people have complained about the extra dripping from steam wands and Portafilter assemblies after brewing and steaming are done. For this issue I say, If you don't expect that when using something that has water passing through coffee grinds is going to drip after it sits for a second, or after steaming milk, there wont be a little bit of milk left in the wand to drip out, then you're dreaming. Everything drips a little. For the most part this machine is very good at cutting off any excess dripping when you turn pumps, switches and knobs off that you need to during the espresso making process.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
Less than 1 month
My Experience With Using This Product:
Coffee Lover
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Starbucks espresso grind
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
Steam wand height
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 4 out of 5
Posted By:
Cesco Palo
08/21/2005
Has owned for:
Less than 1 month
Ability Level:
Coffee Lover
Buy Decision Follow up
I am a veteren of the SF coffee house scene having wasted a good part of my life since the eighties waxing prophetic about nothing but with conviction. I have always bought my coffee and, now in the south, often subjected my palette to McStarbucks when we could not get to a real cafe. My Mr. Coffee emergency back-up went kirplunk after 10 years and a decision had to be made. My Gaggia Carezza is almost perfect. My wife leaves the house every morning with a great latte made by yours truly. Great foam, crema and coffee. Nice job, very good construction and great price. Yes, I did my homework and shopped extensively before I bought.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
Less than 1 month
What's Best About this Product?
Ease of use. Resevoir for water. Foam.
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
Let your milk get near to room temperature or your milk and foam will not reach the right temperature when the foam is finished - if you don't follow this advice you will end up with a warm cup instead of a hot cup of coffee.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Coffee Lover
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Pilon
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
The steam piping is too close to the unit and is too close to the bottom of the unit/counter and, these two relative placements, makes it difficult to manage the cup used for creating foam especially at completion.
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Mr. Coffee (for emergencies so give me a break)
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
We buy grinded coffee since we just starting making our own.
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
n/a
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 5 out of 5
Posted By:
Patrick Bertrand
07/10/2005
Has owned for:
6 - 12 months
Ability Level:
Coffee Lover
Wonderful Value
This machine is a wonderul price value. I haven't used anything else, but the coffee is way better than any of the coffe shops in my town.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
6 - 12 months
What's Best About this Product?
The price, good instructions and easy to use
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
Buy a better tamper the plastic one that comes with this is junk.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Coffee Lover
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Illy, Lavazza Super crema, Malabar Gold, Java Joe, Coffee Bean and Tea leaf, and local coffee.
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
The water resavoir is to small.
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
none
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
Blade and Burr
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
Cuisinart blade grinder for about a month, then got Capresso Burr Grinder Select, and Now Rancilio Rocky doserless
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 5 out of 5
Posted By:
peter verdirame
05/13/2005
Has owned for:
Less than 1 month
Ability Level:
Coffee Lover
Super value; and good espresso
I received this as a gift. I had an espresso machine for years, but gradually stopped using it due to its lack of power, and cold coffee. When I saw that my wife was giving me an espresso maker for under $200, I assumed it would be underpowered, and another disappointment. Well, after 2 weeks, I can tell you this is a very good machine. It makes some nice shots. I disagree with the above poster who says not to use the perfect crema accessory, but I agree the tamper and the little frother attachment things are junk, and they are already in the garbage. Bought a real tamper. (i like my coffee, but I don't usually make lattes or capuccinos. )
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
Less than 1 month
What's Best About this Product?
The power it puts out, and the fact that the coffee comes out hot.
Some Helpful Tips For Using this Product:
Definitely use a good tamper, and experiment. You can make coffee as good as a $500 espresso maker with this one.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Coffee Lover
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Illy, home ground
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
Steamer wand is at a weird angle, and the reservoir is a little awkward. The lights could be a little brighter.
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
Starbucks
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
Bosch; La Pavoni burr
The Make and Model of My Grinder:
La Pavoni burr
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Rated 4 out of 5
Posted By:
Antonios Panteleon
05/08/2005
Has owned for:
1 - 6 months
Ability Level:
Beginner
Not bad at all
I am very happy with this machine. Although I am not a coffee savvy guy I got a really good espresso. I suspect the learging curve is steep - I just got the Graffeo Dark Beans and it introduced a new factor in the coffee brewing process...Anyway, I would really recommend it the Carezza.
How Long Have I Been Using This Product?
1 - 6 months
What's Best About this Product?
The quality of coffee related to price.
My Experience With Using This Product:
Beginner
The Coffee I've Tried With This Product:
Starbucks - Coffee Bean - Graffeo Dark Beans
Some Improvements I Would Recommend for This Product:
The look and buttons. Also, the steam wand is in the way.
Some of the Other Machines I've Used:
None
The Type of Grinder I've Been Using:
Cuisineaid burr grinder
Ease of Use:
Espresso Quality:
Steaming Ability:
Construction:
Price Value:
Instructions:
0
Gaggia Carezza Parts Diagram - rev ? - 04-08-2002
Gaggia Carezza Wiring Diagram 120V - rev X - 10-09-1996
Gaggia Carezza Parts Diagram - rev 01 - 01-23-2007
Gaggia Carezza Parts Diagram 1/23/2007 - Rev 01
Have a Question? Then ask the community...
Get answers from in-house espresso experts & customers.
Get answers from in-house espresso experts & customers.
The Buzz
zoltan majdik
asked a question about a product...
at 05-17-2006 9:10am
Gaggia Carezza
I managed to get a pretty decent shot of espresso out of my DeLonghi with a cheap Krups blade grinder, but for the Gaggia's non-pressurized portfafilter, I'll have to upgrade my grinder as well. I've been comparing the Gaggia MDF and the Solis Maestro Plus. Can I ask what your opinion is? Can the Solis Maestro Plus grind fine enough for a good shot with the Carezza, or is the MDF the (only) way to go?
0
Vote
0
Whole Latte Love Staff In our experience, we’ve found that the MDF will work better with the Carezza because the Maestro Plus produces inconsistent results with the commercial style portafilter. You can learn more about the Gaggia MDF by following the link below.
Noel Glucksman
asked a question about a product...
at 05-06-2006 5:07pm
0
Whole Latte Love Staff Although the Carezza has a pump that’s capable of producing 16 BAR, like all other espresso machines it is set to brew at between 8 and 9 BAR. Information like this can be found for any of the espresso machines we carry by following the link below to our Compare-O-Matic.
Natalie Denburg
asked a question about a product...
at 04-02-2006 6:39am
Gaggia Carezza
Can I use a double shot (14 gm) pod in my Gaggia Carezza, such as the Caffe Bristot pod?
0
Vote
0
Whole Latte Love Staff The Gaggia machines are only rated to use ESE certified pods, like those from Illy and Lavazza, which contain only 7 grams of espresso. A double shot pod has too much coffee in it to fit into the pod filter basket, so it wouldn’t work with this machine. To learn more about the ESE pods we carry, simply follow the links below.
Denise Rivan
asked a question about a product...
at 01-17-2006 2:57pm
0
Whole Latte Love Staff Although you can’t make true drip coffee with this machine, it will produce 2 other things that are extremely similar. The first is an americano, which is simply a double shot of espresso with 6 to 8 oz of hot water added to it. The second is a cafe crema, which is 6 to 8 oz of water pressure brewed through coffee that is more coarsely ground than what you would normally use for espresso. Of the 2 an americano tastes more like drip coffee, but the robust flavor of a cafe crema is usually good enough that people are ready to drop the drip forever. For more information on the types of drinks you can make with an espresso machine, follow the link below to our article on the subject.
Jonathan Alberts
asked a question about a product...
at 01-03-2006 9:46pm
0
Whole Latte Love Staff You can purchase replacement parts for any Gaggia machine directly through Whole Latte Love by calling us at 888-411-5282.
Brian Greene
asked a question about a product...
at 12-26-2005 5:38pm
Gaggia Carezza
After the steam light turns green I am able to steam for around 20 seconds and then the light often turns off. Does this mean the machine temperature has dropped and I'm getting inadequate steam?
0
Vote
0
Whole Latte Love Staff It is normal for the light to cycle on and off during steaming. This simply indicates that the machine is pulling more water into the boiler and heating it to the proper temperature for use.
Katelyn Stewart
asked a question about a product...
at 11-02-2005 6:18pm
0
Whole Latte Love Staff The Carezza is not NSF approved and is only rated for light home use. Unfortunately, we do not currently carry any machines that are NSF approved. If you are looking for a commercial machine, I would recommend contacting Rancilio at 877-726-2454 for information on their line of commercial equipment.
Peter Just
asked a question about a product...
at 10-19-2005 7:52am
Gaggia Carezza
So far I'm very pleased with the performance of my Gaggia Carezza. When spending the day at home I'd like to be able to pull a shot once every two or three hours. Should I leave the machine turned on, or should I turn it off between brewing sessions?
0
Vote
0
Whole Latte Love Staff The Carezza isn’t meant to be left on for more than an hour or so without being used. Leaving it on unused for longer periods of time can lead to problems, so it isn’t recommended. However, the Carezza heats up in a relatively short amount of time (about 6 minutes) so there won’t be a long wait to reheat the machine after it’s been off for a while. If you’re looking for a machine that can be left on for longer amounts of time, I would recommend taking a look at the Expobar Office Pulser or Office Control. Both of these machines have the safety features that will make this possible. For more information on these machine, simply follow the links below.
Maureen Sabin
asked a question about a product...
at 08-05-2005 7:58am
Gaggia Carezza
How do you get more foam? I'm using the frothing wand and using skim milk in a pitcher, but it's not very frothy and rich.
0
Vote
0
Whole Latte Love Staff Skim milk is the easiest milk to froth, but you will find that the results are not as creamy as they would be with a higher fat content milk like 2%, so I might recommend trying a different milk first. You also want to make sure that you’re opening and closing the steam wand while the tip of the frothing and is submerged in the milk to avoid producing big bubbles that are difficult to eliminate. In addition, for for frothing you want to keep the tip of the frothing wand closer to the surface of the milk, as putting it lower into the milk will result in steamed rather than frothed milk. The other 2 suggestions I have would be to make sure you’re using cold milk and a cold frothing pitcher (the colder it is, the longer it will take to heat it up), as well as using a frothing thermometer to ensure you get the milk as hot as possible without boiling it. For more information on frothing techniques, follow the link below to our article on the subject.
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Hours of Operation
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Friday: 9am-6pm
Saturday: 10am-3pm
Sunday: 12pm - 5pm
Whole Latte Love - 2200 Brighton Henrietta Townline Rd, Rochester, NY 14623
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Whole Latte Love Staff The Carezza comes with a small plastic tamper, but we’ve found that purchasing a heavier-duty tamper will not only make tamping easier, but will also last longer over time. This machine will need a 58mm tamper, since its portafilter is 58mm as well. We offer several tampers in this size, some of which you can learn more about by following the links below.
05-25-2006 10:53am |