Gaggia's partner, Illy, has an unmatched reputation for delivering premium coffee and espresso; in fact, 2 million cups of Illy coffee are served daily in Italy, a true testament to the brand's popularity. One of Illy's most significant contributions to the espresso industry has been its invention of the revolutionary iperEspresso system. Unlike most single-serve systems, iperEspresso capsules use a patented two-step extraction process to ensure maximum flavor, aroma and crema extraction. Since the brewing process is self-contained within the individual capsules, you won't run the risk of contaminating your machine with residual coffee. iperEspresso capsules are available in medium, dark and decaf roasts.
So, what do you get when you combine the efforts of Italy's leading espresso authorities? The Gaggia for Illy Plus, of course!
This groundbreaking machine is designed especially for the iperEspresso system and it brews espresso so good you won't believe your drink came from a capsule. It's one thing to streamline and simplify the brewing process, but it's rare for single-serve espresso to taste as good as its hand-brewed brethrens.
Standard Operating Procedure
Once you insert an iperEspresso capsule into the machine and press the brew button, the Gaggia for Illy will pre-infuse the coffee to bring forth its full flavor and aroma. The espresso will, then, be extracted and dispensed from the capsule's patented e-valve. Coffee is never exposed to the Gaggia for Illy Plus, so there's no post-brew cleanup to speak of and your drink is guaranteed to be completely pure. After your beverage has been extracted, the Gaggia for Illy Plus automatically discards the capsule into a dedicated container, so you're free to simply walk away and enjoy your espresso.
Steam it up
Like all Gaggia machines, the Gaggia for Illy Plus has pretty impressive steaming and frothing capabilities. In fact, Gaggia didn't scrimp on this single serve unit; it comes outfitted with the famous no-burn Pannarello steam wand. You'll be able to create rich steam and froth for lattes and cappuccino; it's the best of both worlds—the convenience of a single-serve machine with the steaming capabilities of a semi automatic.
The Details
Now that you have an idea of what the Gaggia for Illy Plus can do, here's how it does it...This machine is powered by a 15-bar pump and robust stainless steel boiler. The brew button is programmable to allow the Gaggia for Illy Plus to adapt to your preferences. You can set the brewing duration and subsequently drink volume by pressing and holding the brew button; this is one of the unique features that distinguishes the Gaggia for Illy Plus from its peers. Also exclusive to the Gaggia for Illy Plus is the adjustable cup holder and drip tray; it can be raised or lowered to make room for cups and mugs of all sizes. Water purification comes courtesy of a Mavea filter, which removes minerals from the contents of the one-liter reservoir to prevent scale buildup.
If you've ever wanted to try a single-serve espresso machine, take the jump with the Gaggia for Illy Plus. The compact footprint of this machine makes it perfect for home use or stash it in your desk at the office and be prepared when a caffeine emergency strikes!