Espresso Old School

I like strong beer, stronger women, my wine aged, and my shoes worn.
Being that I really enjoy a cup of dark, robust roast in the morning, about that let’s have a little talk.

I decided recently to forgo coffee. 2-3 cups had become a little much for my system. If 2-3 cups sounds redundant, or even unhealthy, I would agree with the former and qualify the second based on various anecdotal and scientific evidence. I like the taste of a strong brew and enjoy the way it initially makes me feel, especially before a work-out or work (such a sentiment is almost universal). However, that’s too much joe.

My morning diet has often included espresso. I might have had the occasional espresso run over a couple of days, but wasn’t always best for the budget. Two and half years ago, my in-laws bought us a Saeco Vienna Plus. This machine could pump espresso all day long. We loved it, abused it, sat there amazed at its durability and consistency, eye balls sticking-out like the caffeine addicts we were. For two years we had espresso at the push of a button. Coffee beans ground, pressed and brewed automatically. She was part of the family. When she finally gave-out, we inquired about a repair; unfortunately, her time had come. “I could practically buy a new machine for that, bud!” So long, Vienna Plus. Back to coffee.

For my birthday this year, I decided it was time for a new “machine.” The 2-3 cups of coffee program I’d been on for about six months was killing me. I needed help, a caffeine make-over, if you will. Be that as it may, this program change has come during tough economic times. Could I really justify the purchase of $500 espresso machine? Should I purchase a used one? Search high and low while jonesing for my fix? What was I going to do?

Introducing, the Bialetti Moka Express. This is an old-school “machine.” It brews a mean cup and a half of strong espresso from the stove top. After it’s 5 minute brew, the juice announces its arrival from this beautiful coffee-pot when I can smell the strong, deep aroma of freshly brewed, coarsely ground espresso. It’s pour is lovely. The hot vapors and rich bouquet will make any coffee drinker smile. This is an event. Espresso lover, start your engine. The Bialetti Moka Express delivers, for a whopping $35.00. Check the website to see their variety of handsome coffee makers.

This genius piece of Italian hardware cleans in two minutes, so it’s ready for the next day.
The next day. I can’t wait.

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