During my childhood in Denmark, I saw Moccamasters everywhere. They were a staple in kitchens, including my grandmother’s. Back then, the Moccamaster’s reputation was all about brewing coffee faster than any other coffee maker. But that was a long time ago, before the specialty coffee revolution. So, is this iconic coffee machine still relevant today?
As a coffee geek and Q grader with an extensive collection of brewing devices, including pour-over setups and espresso machines, I had high standards. Could a 46-year-old design earn a place among my collection of coffee gadgets?
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The Legacy of Technivorm
Technivorm, the Dutch company behind Moccamaster, has been in the coffee industry since the early 1960s. The iconic KGB model, born in 1974, was the breakthrough. What’s intriguing is that Moccamaster models today are essentially variations of that original design. This consistency, rare in consumer electronics and high-street fashion, speaks volumes about the machine’s quality and reliability.
The materials and construction of Moccamasters follow an eco-friendly ethos. The sturdy aluminum block housing and readily available spare parts allow for easy repairs. Owning a Moccamaster means having a long-term investment in a sustainable coffee machine.
Moccamaster KBG 741 in Action
Let’s forget about nostalgia and focus on how the Moccamaster performs today. Does it meet modern coffee snobs’ expectations?
Initially, the workflow with its different parts seemed a bit cumbersome. But as with most coffee gadgets, after a week of use, muscle memory kicked in, and the workflow issues were no longer a big deal. Moreover, the modular design makes repairs simple, ensuring the longevity of the machine.
Cleaning the Moccamaster is a breeze compared to other automatic drip coffee makers. Easy access to all parts in contact with water and coffee grounds eliminates concerns about rancid oils and mold affecting flavor and health.
The Challenge of Extraction
The Moccamaster’s reputation for quick brewing proved true during testing. However, I found that without intervention, the brews were a bit too fast, compromising contact time. To address this, I would occasionally turn off the machine for 30 seconds after the first water dispersion to mimic a bloom. This simple step resulted in rounder and fuller-tasting cups.
The water dispersion issue became apparent, with a narrow water spray arm creating a single stream that dug into the brew bed, causing uneven extraction. Fortunately, Moccamaster now ships with a redesigned water outlet arm that encourages even dispersion across the coffee bed. Installing the new arm is a straightforward task, resulting in improved extraction and a more pleasant brewing experience.
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The Taste Test
Overall, the taste of coffee brewed with the Moccamaster is excellent. The machine, equipped with a copper heating element, ensures the right brewing temperature. When using clean water at the correct temperature, poured evenly and at the right intervals, the resulting coffee is guaranteed to taste good.
However, I found that helping the Moccamaster along by adding a “blooming phase” or employing simple techniques like stirring the brew bed and adjusting the spray arm angle enhanced the final cup. These steps pushed the machine to deliver exceptional results, capturing the full flavor potential of the beans.
Who Should Get a Moccamaster?
The decision to invest in a Technivorm Moccamaster depends on your coffee needs and preferences. For specialty coffee enthusiasts who typically brew small batches, such as with a two-cup Hario V60, the Moccamaster may not be essential. Pour-over methods still offer a slight edge in quality and simplicity.
However, if you frequently brew larger batches, between 4-10 cups, the Moccamaster becomes an excellent choice. It allows you to serve delicious coffee to friends and family with ease. The minimal involvement required during most of the brewing process frees you up to focus on your guests.
For those seeking an iconic coffee maker that will stand the test of time, the Moccamaster is a worthwhile investment. Its longevity and repairability outweigh the higher initial cost when considering long-term sustainability.
Drawbacks and Alternatives
While the Moccamaster KBG 741 has its downsides, some of these limitations, such as the poor spray arm and fast brewing, have been addressed in newer models like the Moccamaster Select. The classic KGB 741’s flimsy carafe may also disappoint, but alternative brands can easily replace it. Overall, these drawbacks can be worked around or resolved with upgraded versions of the Moccamaster.
An alternative to consider is the Breville Precision Brewer, a highly advanced and adjustable coffee maker. However, the Breville lacks the repairability and simplicity that the Moccamaster offers. For most coffee enthusiasts brewing between 0.5L-1L (4-8 cups), the Moccamaster provides a compelling package.
Final Thoughts: The Iconic Moccamaster
The Moccamaster KBG 741 remains a classic design in the coffee world, akin to Levi’s 501 jeans or Converse sneakers. Surprisingly, it met many of my needs as a specialty coffee geek, even compared to more advanced machines like the Breville Precision Brewer.
While intervention during brewing was sometimes necessary to optimize results, the Moccamaster consistently delivered excellent coffee. Its simplicity, when combined with a few additional steps, ensures fantastic coffee on a large scale.
So, if you’re a coffee lover looking to brew big batches with style, the Moccamaster can be your trusted daily driver. Its reliability, longevity, and commitment to sustainability make it a worthwhile investment for those who value quality and durability.