The Gaggia New Classic is an interesting espresso machine that is very well suited as an entry into the world of espresso preparation. The small single-boiler machine scores points in terms of construction, is solid and delivers good results. Only one thing needs to be learned: temperature control to brew perfect espresso.
Larger and more expensive espresso machines, as well as dual-boiler espresso machines and especially espresso machines with PID control, are characterized by a constant brewing temperature. With single-boiler machines, compromises have to be made, especially if switching between frothing and brewing espresso.
In a single-boiler machine, both the brewing water and the steam for frothing milk are drawn from one boiler. Hence the name "single-boiler." However, a different temperature is required for preparing espresso than for frothing milk.
The perfect espresso brewing temperature is between 92 and 94 degrees Celsius. To be able to froth, the temperature in the boiler must be raised to over 120 degrees. Only then is the necessary pressure generated. With the Gaggia New Classic, heating is started by pressing the frothing button.
To reach the perfect brewing temperature after frothing and also when heating up after starting the machine, we have developed a frothing-rinsing-waiting time rhythm for you, which we present here.
Getting the Gaggia New Classic to the right temperature
When you start the Gaggia New Classic, according to the indicator lights, it is ready for operation after just a few minutes. Both the light on the on/off switch and the espresso brewing light are on. However, the effective brewing temperature is now too hot. So what to do?
We recommend the following procedure when starting the Gaggia:
- as soon as both lights are on, the process can begin
- Press the espresso brew button and let water run for 10 seconds.
- briefly hold the portafilter under the hot water so that it also reaches brewing temperature.
- Thoroughly dry the portafilter and begin the grinding and tamping process.
- 45 seconds are available for this. We measured a suitable brewing temperature of 92-93 degrees 45 seconds after the initial flush.
- Without this step, we had brewing temperatures of more than 98 degrees and the coffee was accordingly bitter.
If additional espressos are to be prepared immediately afterwards, we recommend the following procedure:
- Serve the freshly brewed espresso (approx. 15 seconds)
- Unclasp the portafilter, flush for 2 seconds using the brew button.
- Clean the portafilter, grind, etc.
- 45 seconds after flushing, the brewing temperature is again suitable.
If cappuccino is brewed in between, the procedure should be repeated as at the start, i.e. with a 10-second flushing phase.
A test of the Gaggia New Classic follows. For now, it was important for us to provide you with these tips in writing. A suitable grinder for the Gaggia New Classic is, for example, the Sage Smart Grinder Pro.
