Rocket Espresso Giotto Type V Espresso Machine: 2024 Review
Introduction
The Rocket Espresso Giotto Type V is a well-loved, Italian-style machine that has stood the test of time as a fan favorite. This prosumer espresso machine boasts a classic design with its heat exchanger boiler, traditional Italian styling, durable 304 stainless steel exterior and brass and copper internal components for exceptional longevity. As we look ahead to 2024, is the Rocket Espresso Giotto Type V still a formidable choice in the world of espresso machines? Let's examine its features and capabilities.
About Rocket Espresso Machines
Rocket Espresso produces the finest espresso machines in the tradition of ‘Fatto a Mano’ translated to, ‘made by hand’.
Rocket Espresso's small team of craftsmen produce both premium domestic and commercial espresso machines, beautifully made with meticulous care and attention to detail.
More importantly, Rocket Espresso machines will deliver the finest espresso in the cup, time after time.
A partnership between New Zealander Andrew Meo and Italian Daniele Berenbruch who brought philosophies from opposing sides of the world into their Milan factory to make the best espresso machines, each model designed to meet the needs of today’s most exacting espresso customer.
Why The Rocket Espresso Giotto Type V is a WorldClass Machine
Rocket Espresso's Exceptional Build Quality
Rocket Espresso machines are known for their durability and longevity, thanks to their use of heavy-duty materials like 304 stainless steel for the exterior and copper and brass for internal components. These machines are carefully crafted by hand in small factories in Italy, and are built to last with proper care and maintenance. Unlike other machines in this price range, which often use less durable stainless-steel boilers and plastic internal parts, Rocket Espresso machines are made with long-lasting brass and copper materials. Owners have reported that their machines have lasted for over 10 years with proper care and maintenance.
However, it's important to note that the machine's lifespan can be greatly impacted by the level of maintenance it receives over the years. We always recommend following all of Rocket's maintenance guidelines to ensure that you get the most out of your machine and enjoy its full lifespan.
"I recently upgraded from a Breville and have been thoroughly impressed with this new machine. Despite being a beginner in the art of making espresso drinks, the ease of operation and high-quality construction make the learning process a breeze. I highly recommend giving this machine a try, you won't regret it!"
- Customer Review
E61 Performance Group Head
The E-61 group head is a key feature of many espresso machines that helps to ensure consistency and improve the flavor of the espresso. It constantly circulates hot water through the boiler and group head, maintaining the ideal brew temperature at the group head. The E61 group has an automatic pre-infusion function that saturates the coffee at the start of the extraction process, resulting in a more evenly extracted and refined flavor profile. The best part is that this feature operates automatically, so there's no need for the user to take any special actions to benefit from its performance. This is a testament to the machine's well-designed engineering.
Just like the Rocket Espresso machines, the E61 group head is built to last. Made from high-quality materials, it can withstand frequent use and heavy wear and tear, making it perfect for busy households that need a reliable and long-lasting machine.
In conclusion, customers looking to achieve café-quality espresso at home should look for a machine with a high-quality group head like the E61. This feature ensures consistency, improves flavor and ensures long-lasting performance.
PID Controller
PID, or Proportional Integral Derivative, is a term that refers to a type of controller used in espresso machines. In coffee brewing, a PID controller allows the machine to constantly monitor and adjust the water temperature to maintain a set temperature. Without a PID controller, the machine would function more like a thermostat, which can lead to temperature variations and inconsistent espresso shots.
The PID controller offers more precise control and consistency in shot temperature compared to thermostat-based machines. It allows you to find, set and maintain a specific temperature in the machine to ensure that your shots are pulled at the desired temperature. While thermostat-based machines can lead to under or over-extracted shots.
The Rocket Espresso Type V has a PID temperature control, which allows you to control the temperature in the boiler at the touch of a button. The Appartamento model does not have this feature but Rocket Espresso can provide recommendations on how to manually insulate the machine. Additionally, the Type V's boiler is insulated which makes the machine quieter, provides better thermal stability, and protects the boiler.
Presure Gauge
When it comes to brewing a great espresso, there are many factors that can influence the final product. Understanding how to use the built-in brew pressure gauge on your machine can give you valuable insight into the brewing process and help you achieve consistent results.
The pressure of the brew is a key aspect of the espresso-making process, as it can indicate whether you need to adjust the grind (if the pressure is too low) or the dose (if the pressure is too high) to achieve the perfect shot.
Pressure is created by resistance in the flow of water from the machine's pump to the cup. When there is no resistance in the portafilter (an empty basket), water will flow through quickly. When there is resistance in the basket (ground coffee), it slows down the water's path, creating pressure, meaning the machine has to work harder to pass the same amount of water through the coffee.
The Rocket Espresso Giotto Type V is equipped with a pressure gauge, which allows you to make quick adjustments and fine-tune your brewing process for the perfect shot of espresso. Without a pressure gauge, it can be difficult to make these adjustments and achieve a consistent result.
Timed Brewing
The Rocket Espresso Giotto Type V comes equipped with a built-in brew timer, which is an important tool for achieving the perfect extraction. The timing of a shot is crucial for managing the brewing process and ensuring a good-tasting espresso. Typically, you'll aim for a shot to pull in 20-30 seconds. However, for more experimental recipes, different timings may be used.
If your shot pulls too fast, it could indicate that you need a finer grind or tighter tamp. Conversely, if it pulls too slow, it could mean that you need a coarser grind or looser tamp. Without timing your shots, it can be difficult to know for sure what adjustments need to be made.
Poorly extracted shots can have a sour or bitter taste, which is not ideal. If the timing is good, and you're using the right amount of coffee and water, then it's likely an issue with the beans themselves. Many scales come with shot timers, but a built-in timer on the machine itself is more precise and syncs everything up exactly.
Rocket Espresso Steam Power
The Giotto Type V is equipped with hot water and steam wands that are designed to stay cool to the touch, reducing the risk of accidental burns on the hands and arms. These wands are also easier to clean as milk does not stick to them. Additionally, the Giotto Type V features a 2 hole steam tip on the steam wand which helps to distribute heat evenly and create a smooth and consistent texture in the milk, resulting in a beautiful microfoam for your lattes and cappuccinos.
Traditional Italian Styling
Rocket Espresso is a company that prides itself on its dedication to quality, classic Italian engineering, and bold styling. Their machines, such as the Giotto, are built on a foundation of fine Italian design and construction. Over the years, they have continued to innovate and evolve, blending modern technology with traditional design to create state-of-the-art espresso machines. Their hand-built machines offer cutting-edge features that can be used both at home and in commercial settings.
Lead by two Italian partners, Rocket Espresso is based near Milan, where their team of skilled craftsmen create both domestic and commercial espresso machines with great care and attention to detail. Most importantly, Rocket Espresso machines are designed to deliver the finest espresso cup consistently.
The Slim Profile of the Rocket Espresso Machines
The Rocket Espresso Giotto is a sleek and compact machine that is designed to fit seamlessly into any home kitchen or office space. With its slim and low-profile design, it measures just 15.75 inches in height, 13.2 inches in width, and 16.5 inches in depth, making it a perfect choice for those with limited counter space. Despite its small size, it still packs a punch when it comes to performance and functionality, making it a great choice for home espresso users. The design also makes it easy to clean and maintain. The Giotto is made of high-quality materials to ensure durability, so it will last for years to come.
Is the Rocket Espresso Giotto right for you?
If you're in the market for a high-quality espresso machine that is built to last, then a Rocket Espresso machine is the perfect choice for you. These machines are known for their durability and longevity, thanks to the use of heavy-duty materials like 304 stainless steel for the exterior and copper and brass for internal components. They are carefully crafted by hand in small factories in Italy, ensuring that each machine is built to the highest standards of quality.
Additionally, the E-61 group head is a key feature that ensures consistency and improves the flavor of the espresso. It is made from high-quality materials that can withstand frequent use and heavy wear and tear. The PID temperature control, allows you to control the temperature in the boiler at the touch of a button, giving you more precise control and consistency in shot temperature. The Brew Pressure gauge and timer are also great features that give you valuable insight into the brewing process and help you achieve consistent results.
All in all, Rocket Espresso machines are built to last, ensuring that you'll enjoy café-quality espresso at home for many years to come.
