Bezzera Strega Lever Espresso Machine

Paying homage to the very first lever style espresso machine invented in 1901 by Luigi Bezzera, the Bezzera Strega is a fusion of Italian tradition and modern technology. Lever style machines are responsible for coining the term “pulling a shot,” referring to using a manual lever to generate the required pressure for brewing espresso. Refining this method, the Strega uses a hydraulic spring and ulka style vibration pump that ensure even pressure with every pull while still offering fine control of pre-infusion. The result is a machine that emulates the charm and modesty of the origin of espresso while keeping up with the changes that have improved the process over the last century. Similar to the Bezzera BZ10, the Strega is housed in polished AISI 304 stainless steel and rests on 1 ¾” elevated feet. All of the edges on the Strega have been smoothed and rounded giving the machine a streamlined appearance while eliminating any sharp or jagged points. On top of the machine the frame wraps around three of four sides of the passively heated cup tray which can be opened up to access the 4 liter water reservoir. The machine can also be plumbed directly into a water line, eliminating the need for refilling. Italian speakers are likely to find the name Strega (the Italian word for witch) to be a bit of a misnomer given just how beautiful the machine actually is. On the inside the Strega accomplishes the magic of brewing with an Ulka vibration pump and a 2 liter heat exchange stainless steel boiler. One of the key benefits to brewing with the Strega is the unique way in which it controls both temperature and pressure. The high temperature of the copper boiler helps to properly heat the puck for a full extraction while the stored heat in the lever group allow for slightly lower finishing temperatures that prevent overextraction. Similarly, the pressure produced by the machine trails off as well. The ulka pump provides an initial 11 bar followed by the lever spring that starts around 9.5 bar and tapers to about 5.5 bar at the end of the shot. For milk drinks, the Strega can produce roughly 45 seconds of steam time before needed to recover. The steam wand features a commercial style 4-hole tip that speeds up milk frothing and can require a bit of a learning curve for those who aren’t used to steaming so quickly. As a heat exchange machine, the Strega does allow for simultaneous brewing and steaming so with practice you'll be able to cut your drink preparation time in half. This enchanting machine gives you the tools to brew high quality espresso while emulating the very first machines invented by Luigi Bezzera. Experience firsthand what it means to pull a shot with the Bezzera Strega espresso machine. Dimensions: 13" W x 17.7" D x 28" H Weight: 67.24 lbs Dimensions and Weight The Bezzera Strega measures 13" W x 17.7" D x 28" H and weighs 67.27 lbs. Brewing Going back to the roots of espresso brewing, the Strega uses a spring loaded lever as opposed to the more modern brew switch to start the extraction process. Temperature stability is maintained throughout the brewing process thanks to the Strega's copper boiler and thermosyphon system. Stainless Steel Construction Beautiful and durable, the Strega is housed in AISI 304 commercial grade polished stainless steel with traditional Italian styling. Frothing and Hot Water The Strega froths using a commercial style steam wand with a 4-hole tip. The machine can produce up to 45 seconds of constant steam before having to recover. On the opposite side of the machine the hot water wand can product hot water for drinks like tea, cocoa, and americanos.