Briel Espresso Coffee machines

This manufacturer's machines have proved to be the top selling brand in our shop for a number of years now. Briel were given a great boost when, following a "Which" report on domestic espresso machines, their "Versatile due" was voted the best value for money machine. Quite some achievement when you look at the amount of competition out there.

We have however experienced one small problem that appears across the Briel range, and that is the special "valved" insert in the group handle doesn't always function as well as it should.

The most common complaint is that when our customer places coffee in the group, the water fails to pass through the coffee, and instead forces its way out over the top of the group handle. A classic sign that the valve has not functioned properly.

This problem is easily rectified by simply replacing the insert. Usually the company you purchased the machine from will be able to get a replacement.

Just to briefly come back to the valve concept. The idea is a good one, as it only releases liquid coffee when the correct pressure has been achieved, thereby guaranteeing (assuming all other factors are ok) a great crema and flavour into your cup. This can make up for coffee that hasn't been particularly carefully ground.

Please Briel pay more attention to these inserts, they're a great idea but they have to work consistently to back up the reliability of the rest of the machine.