Hoffman, the world-renowned coffee expert and author, uses the Eagle One espresso machine, which he helped design with Victoria Arduino. The Eagle One is a state-of-the-art machine that combines innovation, sustainability, and performance. In this article, we will explore why Hoffman chose this machine, what features it has, and how it compares to other popular espresso machines in the market.
Hoffman is a British coffee professional who has been involved in the specialty coffee industry since 2003. He is the co-founder of Square Mile Coffee Roasters, a London-based roastery that sources and roasts high-quality coffee beans from around the world. He is also the author of The World Atlas of Coffee, a comprehensive guide to coffee origins, varieties, and brewing methods. He has won several awards for his coffee expertise, including the World Barista Championship in 2007 and the World Coffee Tasting Championship in 2014.
Hoffman is also known for his YouTube channel, where he posts videos about coffee topics, such as reviews, experiments, tips, and challenges. He has over 1.5 million subscribers and more than 100 million views on his channel. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential and respected voices in the coffee community.
Why Does Hoffman Use the Eagle One?
Hoffman has been using the Eagle One espresso machine since 2019, when he collaborated with Victoria Arduino, an Italian manufacturer of espresso machines, to create a new model that would meet the needs and expectations of modern coffee professionals and enthusiasts. Hoffman was involved in the design and development of the Eagle One, providing feedback and suggestions based on his extensive experience and knowledge of espresso.
The Eagle One is a machine that aims to achieve excellence in espresso quality, while also being environmentally friendly and user-friendly. It has several features that make it stand out from other espresso machines, such as:
NEO Engine: The NEO (New Engine Optimization) is a patented technology that allows the Eagle One to use less energy and water than conventional machines, while maintaining optimal temperature and pressure for espresso extraction. The NEO Engine also reduces the noise and vibration of the machine, making it more pleasant to use and operate.
T3 System: The T3 System is a technology that enables the Eagle One to precisely control the temperature of the water in three different points: the boiler, the group head, and the steam wand. This allows the user to customize the temperature profile for each coffee origin, variety, and roast level, resulting in more consistent and flavorful espresso shots.
Cool Touch Steam Wand: The Cool Touch Steam Wand is a feature that prevents the steam wand from getting hot, even after prolonged use. This makes it safer and easier to handle and clean, as well as preventing milk from sticking and burning on the wand. The steam wand also has a lever that allows the user to adjust the steam pressure and flow, creating perfect microfoam for latte art.
Smartphone App: The Eagle One comes with a smartphone app that connects to the machine via Bluetooth. The app allows the user to monitor and adjust the machine’s settings, such as temperature, pressure, dose, and pre-infusion. The app also provides statistics and diagnostics on the machine’s performance and maintenance, as well as access to tutorials and recipes.
How Does the Eagle One Compare to Other Espresso Machines?
The Eagle One is not the only espresso machine that Hoffman has used or reviewed. He has also tried and tested many other models from different brands, such as Breville, Rancilio, and Diletta. How does the Eagle One stack up against these competitors?
Breville: Breville is a popular brand of espresso machines that offers a range of models for different budgets and skill levels. Some of the most popular models are the Bambino Plus, the Barista Express, and the Barista Touch. These machines are designed to be easy to use and have features such as built-in grinders, automatic milk frothers, and digital displays. However, they are not as durable or powerful as the Eagle One, and they may not be able to produce the same level of espresso quality and consistency. Hoffman has reviewed some of these models on his YouTube channel, and he has praised them for their convenience and affordability, but he has also pointed out their limitations and drawbacks.
Rancilio: Rancilio is another well-known brand of espresso machines that has a long history and reputation in the coffee industry. One of its most iconic models is the Silvia, which has been a favorite of home espresso enthusiasts for over two decades. The Silvia is a simple and sturdy machine that has a single boiler, a brass group head, and a stainless steel body. It can pull excellent espresso shots, but it requires some skill and technique to master. It also lacks some of the features and innovations that the Eagle One has, such as the NEO Engine, the T3 System, and the smartphone app. Hoffman has used the Silvia in the past, and he has recommended it as a good entry-level machine for those who want to learn and improve their espresso skills.
Diletta: Diletta is a relatively new brand of espresso machines that has gained some attention and recognition in the coffee community. One of its most notable models is the Bello+, which is a super-automatic machine that can grind, tamp, brew, and steam with the touch of a button. It has a sleek and modern design, and it has features such as a dual boiler, a touch screen, and a self-cleaning system. It can make a decent espresso, but it may not be able to capture the nuances and complexities of different coffees. It also does not allow much room for customization and experimentation, as it does everything for the user. Hoffman has reviewed the Bello+ on his YouTube channel, and he has expressed his mixed feelings about it. He has acknowledged its convenience and simplicity, but he has also questioned its value and quality.
The Eagle One is a remarkable espresso machine that reflects Hoffman’s vision and passion for coffee. It is a machine that combines innovation, sustainability, and performance, and it can deliver exceptional espresso quality and consistency. It is also a machine that offers flexibility and control, and it can cater to different preferences and tastes. It is not a cheap or easy machine, but it is a machine that can satisfy and challenge the most discerning and demanding coffee lovers. If you are looking for a machine that can match Hoffman’s standards and expectations, the Eagle One is the one for you.
