What capsule systems are there? Let's try to figure it out.
The choice of a capsule system for a coffee machine directly depends on its brand. There are several basic types of capsules that the technique of most well-known companies works with. It is difficult to call them universal, although some manufacturers create coffee machines that are compatible with 2-3 types. But more often than not, the differences do not allow, for example, placing Nespresso capsules in the device for Dolce Gusto. What is the difference between coffee capsules from different manufacturers and which line is better to choose?
Nespresso
Nestle created the first capsule coffee machine for which a special system was developed. Nespresso Grand Cru capsules are available in 26 flavors. Most of them are 100% Arabica, although Robusta is also found in the composition. The system is divided into a series of flavors: intense and tart INTENSO, more delicate ESPRESSO, natural PURE ORIGIN, original LUNGO, flavored VARIATIONS and soft DECAFFEINATO. The latter do not contain caffeine, which is important for people who want to reduce their intake.
Nespresso capsules made of aluminum with a polymer shell are quite diverse, and of all the options compatible with the coffee machine of the same name, they are rightfully considered the highest quality. Their wide gustatory palette is a separate plus, because lovers of tart black coffee with a pleasant bitterness and those who prefer a delicate cappuccino with froth will easily find their drink. The average weight of one capsule is 5-5.5 grams.
The assortment includes capsules with fruit, chocolate, vanilla, woody and caramel notes. Fragrances can be balanced and whole, or they can be composed of several brighter notes. All Nespresso capsules are ideal for preparing espresso as they do not contain sugar or milk powder. These ingredients can be added later to taste.
Lavazza BLUE
Lavazza brand products are slightly cheaper, but the difference in quality is practically not noticeable. BLUE capsules weigh approximately 8-9 grams and contain a powder inside for making a rich, tart espresso and a softer and sweeter lungo. Coffee differs from each other in strength, degree of roast and prevailing notes in the flavor bouquet. Each BLUE capsule contains a selection of Brazilian or Central American Arabica, and in some it is combined with robusta from Southeast Asia. Only one of the 17 flavors has nothing to do with coffee: dark hot chocolate.
Connoisseurs of real coffee will be able to try Espresso Amabile with a full-bodied creamy aftertaste, strong Espresso Vigoroso dark roast and soft, sweet and creamy Espresso Delicato. The capsule system is perfect for office use: the variety of drinks will easily satisfy the needs of every employee. Some blends are good for making lungo in a large cup, while others are more suitable for classic espresso. A special label on the capsule will help determine how much water is best to brew the contents.
Lavazza espresso point
Created by the same Italian firm, Lavazza Espresso Point capsules are an office series. These are 5 types of espresso from 100% Arabica with varying degrees of intensity. The system contains both soft and velvety drinks, as well as brighter, bitter, with a pleasant sourness and multifaceted taste. Some of them have floral, fruity and chocolate notes, while others are classics.
¡Tierra! Espresso has a velvety texture and a rich, intense aroma. Its medium roast and sweetness with fruity notes make this espresso one of the most delicious in the line. Crema & Aroma Gran Espresso will delight connoisseurs of strong black coffee. In its aroma you can discern pleasant notes of caramelized nut. The softest and softest in the system is Aroma Point Gran Espresso, which contains 40% Arabica and 60% Robusta.
The series is presented in a convenient packaging and is ideal for the compact Ep Mini coffee machine. This is ideal for those who need a break for a delicious, strong coffee during the day. The capsules are specially designed for her and are not compatible with other coffee machines.
Lavazza A Modo Mio
The system that Lavazza A Modo Mio capsules make up is ideal for home use. Inside each small container is ground coffee: sweet Arabica from Brazil or another variety from Central America and spicy Indian robusta with a bitter taste. The drink can have a dried fruit, chocolate or caramel flavor, depending on the selected variety. The capsules are ideal for making espresso, and some of them go well with milk. It is important to note that the line includes a caffeine-free drink.
The capsules of the A Modo Mio system have a special shape, therefore they are only compatible with coffee machines created specifically for their line: Espressgo, Favola Cappuccino, Favola Plus, Favola Plus Wimbledon and Favola.
Other capsule systems
There are other lines of delicious coffee capsules to try. But for this you need another coffee machine. The French Dolce Gusto system was created by the same Nestle company and in fact is a competitor to Nespresso. But it offers not only coffee. The assortment also includes tea and hot chocolate. The system is cheaper than Nespresso. But it is important to note: the design of the coffee machines of this brand is not so reliable, and the capsule contains a smaller volume of the product than other manufacturers put.
The American Tassimo system differs from others in that its capsules are more like flat discs in shape. Each of them contains a special barcode that allows the machine to read cooking recommendations. The scanner often gets dirty and has to be wiped manually, which is often inconvenient. The line of coffee of this brand is rather narrow: 4 rich black and 4 with milk. But there is also tea and hot chocolate.
Lavazza Firma is a new generation system from the same Italian manufacturer, but represented by elite flavors of the best coffee from Brazil and Central America. Coffee in it is divided into weak and refined, balanced and full-bodied, as well as strong black with the brightest taste. The new capsules are suitable for making espresso, latte, americano, cappuccino, ristretto and espresso macchiato.
Swiss Cremesso is not so common in Ukraine, but it has a rich palette of flavors. The shell of each capsule is made of food grade polymer. Inside contains about 7 grams of powder. In some capsules it is 100% Arabica without impurities, while in others sugar and milk powder are added. Depending on their type and the coffee machine itself, you can prepare several types of espresso, ristretto, caffeine-free coffee, lungo and macchiato.
When choosing a capsule system for a coffee machine, it is important to consider not only its features, but also your taste preferences. If you like the refined taste of pure black coffee more, it is better not to save money either on the machine or on capsules for it. For those who like to constantly try something new, more budget lines are suitable, which, in addition to different types of coffee, include tea and hot chocolate.
