If you're like most Americans, you were introduced to espresso as part of a cappuccino or latte. When prepared correctly, the sweet, creamy milk and rich espresso transform an enjoyable morning pick-me-up coffee into an intoxicating blend of flavors and textures. Over time, some home baristas' taste preference will drift towards straight espresso as they come to appreciate the nuances of the coffee itself. If you are such an "espresso purist," or perhaps an occasional cappuccino drinker, the Quickmill Alexia, offered by Chris's Coffee Service, was designed with you in mind.

Based on the time-tested design of the E61 brew group, the Alexia is forgiving of minor errors in barista technique. As a single boiler espresso machine, it also offers simple brew temperature management. With the addition of an optional electronic brew temperature control, it can reliably and easily pinpoint the desired brew temperature over a range, an enticing option for those who wish to fully explore the effects of brew temperature changes on the coffee's flavors. Is it the choice for the espresso purist? A beginner? Or latte lover? Let's find out.

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Image courtesy of Chris' Coffee Service

Great job. Question and maybe I missed it in the original review thread and the Buyer's Guide. Was any temp testing done with less than 2 minute recovery time? WBC "torture test" run? In other words what is the minimum recovery shot time without inter-shot nose dive? With and without during shot heater cut-out.

As I recall, the brew temperature was acceptable for two back-to-back shots. After that, the temperatures would fall off without recovery time. The two minutes Jeff recommends has ample margin of error. The Alexia would fail miserably on the WBC "torture test" run.

HB wrote:As I recall, the brew temperature was acceptable for two back-to-back shots. After that, the temperatures would fall off without recovery time. The two minutes Jeff recommends has ample margin of error. The Alexia would fail miserably on the WBC "torture test" run.

Unfortunately I didn't have time to follow the thread while the original testing was being done or I would have asked to determine the minimum recovery time needed to maintain shot stability. IMO the assumption that 2 minute recovery time will satisfy home use is faulty. While for many or maybe even most it's fine, what about entertaining and knocking out a dozen or more double shot Americanos after dinner? Do it a number of times and PF build skills may well greatly out pace the 2 min safe requisite recovery time. I know my build speed was well under a minute long before stepping into a commercial setting. No biggy.