An eye-catching machine designed by architect Luca Trazz the futuristic looking Francis Francis X1 is a single serve espresso maker designed to work with Illy iperEspresso capsules. Just so there is no confusion, there was an older version of X1 that could use both coffee grounds or paper based coffee pods, however that model has been discontinued. Some refurbished machines may still be available. The new internally redesigned Francis Francis X1 is available in black, stainless and red exteriors. It measures a little over 12.5 inches high, 10.6 inches wide and 10.4 inches deep. It is known to deliver aromatic drinks that are loaded with thick, golden crema.
Features:
Control Panel:
The first thing you notice as you look at the X1 is the rather large dial in the middle of the display area is the temperature dial. The numbers range from zero to eighty in addition to the steam and cup icon. To the right of the dial are two metal switches that can be alternated between “on” and “off” positions. If an espresso is desired then the switch with the cup icon should be switched to the “on” position and if a latte or a cappuccino is desired then this switch should be in the “on” position. There is an additional “on-off” switch to the left of the dial for turning the power to the machine on. When the X1 is powered on an indicator light comes on to show this.
Brewing:
The Francis Francis X1 employs a two stage “Hyper Espresso” process, which means that the capsule is initially infused with small quantity of water, which seeps into the grounds and begins the extraction before the remaining water is infused through the grounds. This method of brewing produces a better quality drink. Water is pumped through the grounds at 18 bars of pressure so the true flavour of an espresso can be extracted and a nice thick crema is assured. The brass boiler indicates durability and it maintains heat better during the brewing process while precision temperature controls produce a flavourful drink.
Frothing:
The X1 has an integrated frothing wand that makes creating lattes and cappuccinos super easy. However, you have to supply your own jug in which to froth. To froth milk, turn the steam button to the right of the dial to the “on” position and when the X1 reaches the appropriate temperature a beep will sound. At this point the steam knob located on the right side of the machine can be slowly turned to allow the steam to heat and froth the milk. The steam wand can also be used to dispense steam into water for making Americanos, hot chocolate or even tea.
Capsules:
The iperEpresso capsules can be acquired in dark, medium, lungo and decaf. There three different blends available: Guatemala, Brazil and Ethiopia. Compared to some other capsule systems, iperEpresso capsules have a limited variety; furthermore they are non-refillable which is not very environmentally friendly. Finally, at the moment the iperEpresso capsules cost a tiny bit more than similar blends of some other branded capsules.
Other Features:
The X1 features a 33.8 ounce detachable water reservoir. This is fairly big considering that a single shot of espresso is 1.5 ounce, which means less time will be wasted in constant refilling the tank. A cup warmer at the top of the unit keeps espresso containers nice and warm while a drip tray ensures no mess.
Final Word:
The Francis Francis X1 is a solidly constructed single serve espresso maker. It is easy to operate, convenient and requires minimal maintenance. The new blooming of grounds technology, before the actual brewing process produces a beverage with authentic espresso flavor profile.
