Fagor CR-1000 Espresso Machine

Fagor CR-1000

The Fagor CR-1000 is a very simple pump-driven espresso machine.

Features

• up to four cups filter holder and glass carafe
• steam nozzle for frothing of milk
• a modal knob selecting whether you want espresso or steam or off
• inexpensive; I paid about $50 USD for it

Verdict
If you love espresso and your home enjoys visits from an occasional espresso-loving guest or two this is just the machine. The unit does not have any high tech programmable features, just a simple modal knob on the right. Turn it one way to have the unit brew espresso (about 5 minutes for 4 cups); turn it the other to froth some milk with the steam nozzle. It will probably outlast those fancy $500+ espresso machines with LCD interfaces and computers.

So far I have run some high-grade Brazilian beans and New Mexico beans through the unit and tasted fine, either as is or in latte form. But I don’t have any other unit to compare it to so I can’t offer any comparison reviews just yet. My upstairs neighbor has an Italian stovetop espresso that I can probably borrow to compare tastes. Eventually I would like to try out a La Pavoni or a Presso though!

The only problem with this unit is its small capacity (4 small cups of espresso at a time). Also, the steam nozzle of CR-1000 is of a bent design so that one cannot use a measuring cup that is too deep, hence limiting the amount of milk that can be frothed each time. If you often make espresso/lattes for more than four people then a bigger unit with the ability to store and grind beans would be a godsend.