Description

The Gaggia Velasca is an Italian made super-automatic espresso machine that delivers both convenience and quality espresso. With 5 strength selections, 3 temperatures, and 10 grinder settings, the Velasca offers more drink customization options than any other machine in its price range. Great for those who are short on space, its front loading reservoir and dreg drawer allow you to position the machine under cabinets where clearance is limited.

Features and Performance

The Velasca delivers hands-down best value for drink customization among entry level super-automatic espresso machines. Thanks to its 10 setting ceramic burr grinder, the Velasca can be dialed in more precisely to your specific coffee, with the Gaggia Adapting System optimizing dosing across the 5 brew strength settings. Further refinement in the form of 3 temperature settings make the Velasca an ideal choice for anyone looking to experiment with espresso extraction without a manual machine. You can also brew using pre-ground espresso via the bypass doser.

Your choice of espresso and espresso lungo are available on demand via dedicated brew buttons on the left side of the display. Each button can be programmed to your desired volume by pushing and holding it until “memo” appears on the screen. You can also grind and brew twice in a row simply by pressing the button two times in quick succession. On the right side of the machine the dedicated buttons for steaming and hot water allow you to froth milk or dispense water via the steam wand. The pannarello design of the wand automatically aerates milk to a rich and creamy foam while the black plastic matches the black houses and is easier to clean.

Modestly sized, the Velasca has a 54 oz water reservoir, a 10.6 oz bean hopper, 4.5” brew spouts, a 2 cup tray, a 10 puck dreg drawer, and an 18 oz drip tray with a water level float. The blue LED screen is clean and easy to read and the extra large buttons make interfacing with the machine a snap. Maintenance alerts keep you on top of filling the reservoir, bean hopper, emptying the dreg drawer, and descaling.

Why You Should Get It

The Velasca is perfect for the adventurous sort who sticks within the budget. Its wide variety of brew settings allow you to refine your coffee to your exact preferences. It’s an ideal machine for the espresso purist, but also capable of brewing specialty milk drinks with ease. Final word on the Velasca is its convenient front loading reservoir and cup tray for kitchens where space is a premium.