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Permalink Reply by Brady on January 18, 2010 at 8:14am

Your queries are by no means silly. That's what we're here for!

I think you've gotten the wrong impression, based on one opinion in your first discussion. I believe that most here would probably say that the barista DOES deserve credit for producing good coffee. Clearly not all of it, but quite a bit. The superautomatic question demonstrates why this is so.

On the question of boiler material, there are theoretically some benefits to copper boilers. That said, La Marzocco uses stainless and their machines are considered among the best. I think there are more important factors of machine construction.

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Permalink Reply by Mike M on January 20, 2010 at 11:05pm

Mayank, I'm still pretty new to this world as well. So from newbie to newbie, Welcome!

I completely agree with what Brady said about baristi being an important factor in the process. I am not at all impressed with the 'barista' who uses a superautomatic machine to create an espresso product. I believe this is similar to calling someone who makes cookies with pre-packaged cookie dough a 'baker'. I believe being called a barista credits the individual with being in control of the process that leads to a great cup of coffee.

As far as the boilers go.. I have in my notes from Bellissimo's "Bean Business Basics" some will say copper is the best, but others will day there is little difference. I would be more concerned with the number of boilers.. A two-boiler system would dedicate one to brew-water and the other to the steam wand. The trouble is that this means that there are twice the amount of things that could break. I'd also look into the heating elements and capacity when contemplating which machine to buy.

I would also highly recommend the book I learned this from. A lot of great information and answers to questions like this.

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