Sage ‎BES875UK Espresso Machine - Review 🏆

Sage is a well-known brand in the coffee machine industry, especially for their high-end and innovative home espresso machines. The Sage Barista Express Espresso Machine is one of their most popular models, designed for espresso enthusiasts and home baristas who want cafe-quality espresso without the hassle.

The Barista Express combines a high-powered espresso machine with a built-in burr grinder, allowing you to grind fresh beans right before extraction. This gives you maximum control over the flavor and aroma of your shots. The machine comes with precise temperature control, digital PID technology, adjustable grind size, and hands-on pressure control to help optimize the extraction.

This semi-automatic espresso machine is packed with features that make it easy to pull consistent shots and texturize milk, rivaling commercial equipment. It's an ideal choice for someone who wants to level up their home espresso and milk steaming abilities with more advanced equipment. While it requires some learning, the Barista Express allows you to master techniques like microfoam milk texturing and dialing in the optimal espresso grind.

Design and Build Quality

The Sage BES875UK Barista Express features a sleek and modern stainless steel construction that looks great in any kitchen. It has a relatively compact footprint, measuring 35.3 x 37 x 47 cm (WxDxH), making it easy to fit on most countertops. However, at 9.7 kg, this espresso machine has a reassuringly sturdy and solid feel.

The Barista Express comes in two color options - a classic stainless steel finish or a striking cranberry red. Both color variants have a brushed metal exterior that resists fingerprints and looks stylish. The metal portafilter, bean hopper, and drip tray all match the main body color for a cohesive look. The 3L water tank is made of clear plastic so you can easily see the water level. Overall, the Barista Express has an elegant yet durable design suitable for domestic use.

The build quality of the Barista Express is excellent with metal parts that feel solid and sturdy. All the controls have a smooth operation. The portafilter locks into the group head securely with a satisfying click. The steam wand moves smoothly into different positions with a well-engineered ball joint. The bean hopper, drip tray, and water tank can be easily removed for cleaning and maintenance.

Internally, the Barista Express contains a 1600W Thermocoil heating system that allows it to go from cold start to espresso temperature in under a minute. The stainless steel conical burr grinder has 40 grind settings to adjust the fineness. The 15 bar Italian pump provides optimal pressure for espresso extraction. Overall, the Barista Express combines high-quality commercial grade components that allow you to make cafe-style coffee drinks at home.

In addition to looks and performance, Sage has added useful features to improve the user experience. There is an integrated conical burr grinder with a half pound (250g) bean hopper so you can go from beans to espresso in under a minute. The 360 degree swivel-action steam wand makes it easy to froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos. There are also digital temperature control (PID) and pre-infusion functions for optimizing espresso extraction.

If you're looking for a more affordable alternative from Sage, check out the Sage SES500BTR semi-automatic espresso machine. It shares a similar stainless steel housing but omits the built-in grinder to lower the price. However, you retain the same 1600W Thermocoil heater, 15 bar pressure pump, and microfoam milk steaming wand. So it still allows you to craft high-quality espresso-based drinks.

Grinder

The Sage Barista Express features a built-in conical burr grinder with stainless steel burrs. This grinder allows you to grind beans right before brewing for maximum freshness and flavor. The grinder has 60 precise grind settings to allow you to dial in the optimal grind size for espresso. The settings range from extremely fine for Turkish coffee up to a coarse grind for drip coffee. There are clearly marked steps so you can accurately adjust the size as needed.

The hopper holds 8 ounces of beans. It has a locking system that keeps it securely in place during grinding. The hopper is tinted to help keep beans fresh by blocking light exposure. It's easy to remove for cleaning or switching beans.

Overall, the grinder is very convenient since it's integrated into the machine. Having freshly ground beans makes a noticeable difference in the espresso's quality and taste. The broad range of settings provides flexibility for various brew methods beyond just espresso.

The built-in grinder is a key feature that sets the Sage Barista Express apart from other espresso machines like the De'Longhi ECAM44.660.B. With a separate grinder, you have to grind beans beforehand and estimate the amount you'll need. The freshness and grind size are harder to optimize. Having an integrated grinder streamlines the process so you can grind directly into the portafilter.

The conical burr grinder uses stainless steel burrs that are designed to minimize grinding heat and protect the essential oils in the beans. This preserves more aroma and flavor. The 60 grind settings allow you to fine-tune for everything from espresso to drip coffee. The range gives you flexibility to experiment with different beans and brew methods.

The 8 ounce bean hopper has a handy locking mechanism to keep it securely fastened during use. The tinted cover helps block light to maintain freshness. Removing the hopper makes it simple to change beans or clean the grinder.

With each use, you'll appreciate the convenience of having a grinder built into your espresso machine. The simplicity of grinding directly into the portafilter is a huge plus. The precise grind settings let you optimize for any brew style. Overall, the integrated grinder adds value and improves the experience of crafting café-quality espresso drinks at home.

Espresso Performance

The Sage Barista Express delivers excellent espresso performance that rivals much more expensive machines. The 15 bar Italian pump and 1600W thermocoil heating system ensure stable water temperature and pressure for pulling consistent shots.

The espresso always comes out with a rich, thick crema and full flavor. The temperature remains very consistent from shot to shot. The portafilter evenly distributes hot water through the coffee grounds for balanced extraction.

Dialing in the right grind size is easy with the integrated conical burr grinder. You can precisely adjust the grind settings to fine-tune the texture and taste of your shots. The grinder produces a uniform grind, which is key for optimal espresso flavor.

Once dialed in, the machine pulls consistently delicious shots that highlight the natural flavors of the beans. The volumetric control allows customizing shot amounts as needed. Overall, the Barista Express makes it simple for anyone to pull café-quality espresso at home.

Steam Wand

The Barista Express features a powerful steam wand that makes it easy to texture milk for lattes and cappuccinos. The steam wand produces hot, dry steam with plenty of pressure for quick milk texturing.

In testing, the steam wand was able to produce thick, creamy microfoam in about 10-15 seconds. The stainless steel design allows the steam wand to get very hot, while also being easy to wipe clean after use.

The steam wand has a 360 degree swivel range, making it convenient to position the pitcher while steaming milk. It can be positioned to the left or right side as needed.

The steam wand tip is designed to allow you to plunge it just below the surface of the milk to get the right amount of air incorporation. The more you lower the tip into the milk, the less air you'll incorporate and the thicker your foam will be.

It's easy to go from just a bit of foam for lattes to rich, creamy microfoam for cappuccinos. With some practice, you'll be able to texture milk like a pro barista.

The Barista Express doesn't come with any accessories for milk texturing, but you may want to invest in a quality milk pitcher if you plan to make a lot of milk drinks. Pitchers with a swivel base allow you to easily rotate the pitcher under the group head while steaming. Look for one with measurement markings to help gauge amounts. A thermometer strip on the side is also handy for monitoring milk temperature.

With the right techniques and a bit of practice, the Barista Express steam wand makes it simple to froth milk to perfection for your favorite espresso drinks. The powerful dry steam ensures fast heating and incorporates just the right amount of air for silky smooth microfoam.

Ease of Use and Programming

The Sage Barista Express aims to make it easy for beginners to produce cafe-quality espresso at home while still providing enough programming options for enthusiasts.

Overview of Controls and Interface

The machine features an intuitive LCD display and control dial that allows you to easily navigate through the menu and programming options. Common settings like grind size, shot volume, and temperature are adjustable via the display. The portafilter securely locks into place with a satisfying click, and buttons for single and double shots are conveniently located. The steam wand is easy to maneuver into position. Overall, the controls and interface are well-designed for simplicity.

Programmability and Settings

Users can customize settings like grind amount, shot volume, temperature, and pre-infusion time. The Barista Express comes with preset volumes for single and double shots that you can adjust to your preferred amounts. The extensive programming options give you control to dial in the variables for making espresso just the way you like it.

Learning Curve for Newcomers

For beginners new to homemade espresso, there is definitely a learning curve involved with the Barista Express. New users will need to learn how to grind, dose, tamp, and dial in shots properly through trial and error. However, the machine does automate several steps to make the process more approachable. The built-in grinder delivers directly into the portafilter, and volumetric controls make it easy to pull consistent shots. With practice, the Barista Express allows novice home baristas to master the techniques of crafting cafe-quality espresso.

Maintenance and Cleaning

The Barista Express requires regular maintenance and cleaning to keep it performing optimally and to extend its lifespan.

• Cleaning: The group head, portafilter, steam wand, and drip tray should be wiped down daily with a damp cloth to remove coffee oils and residue. Backflushing with plain water weekly helps clean the group head.

• Descaling: Hard water can build up calcium deposits over time, so descaling is recommended every 2-3 months depending on water hardness. Sage sells descaling tablets that are dropped into the water reservoir. The machine has an automatic descale cycle that guides you through the 30 minute process.

• Accessibility: The water reservoir, drip tray, and group head are easily accessible from the front of the machine for cleaning and maintenance. The burr grinder can be accessed by removing the bean hopper. The boiler and internal components are not designed for user servicing and require a technician.

Overall, the Barista Express makes routine maintenance straightforward with removable, dishwasher-safe parts and an automated descaling cycle. Periodic backflushing and descaling performed by the owner will keep it running smoothly for years.

Noise Level

The Sage Barista Express produces a moderate amount of noise during both grinding and brewing. The stainless steel conical burr grinder emits a characteristic whirring sound when grinding beans. The noise level peaks at around 80-85 decibels according to some user reviews, which is comparable to a food blender or garbage disposal running. Some users note the grinder seems louder than other models like the Breville machines.

During the brewing process, the vibration pump and brew boiler also generate noise in the range of 65-75 decibels. The brewing noise is not overly intrusive but is audible. Some users note the brewing noise is quieter than some comparative models like the De'Longhi Dedica machine. Overall the noise level is reasonable for a home espresso machine, but some sound damping precautions like placing it on a rubber mat would help reduce noise transfer. The Sage Barista Express would not be recommended for early morning coffee preparation without potentially disturbing others. But for most home settings it should provide an acceptable noise profile during grinding and brewing cycles.

Warranty and Support

The Sage Barista Express comes with a 2 year warranty which covers defects in materials and workmanship. This is fairly standard for espresso machines in this price range.

Sage offers telephone, email and live chat support options which is convenient. From reports online, their customer service team is generally helpful and responsive in resolving any issues. They can walk you through troubleshooting steps or facilitate a repair if needed.

Replacement parts like filters, portafilters, etc are readily available for purchase direct from Sage if anything happens to break or wear out over time. Critical components like heating elements, pumps and circuit boards can also be sourced if repairs are needed outside of the warranty period.

Overall, the warranty coverage and support options for the Barista Express provide peace of mind and assurance that any issues will be promptly addressed by Sage's service team. With a machine of this calibre, it's important to have that continued backing.

Verdict

The Sage BES875UK Barista Express Espresso Machine is an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts looking for a high-quality home espresso machine. Here are the key pros and cons:

Pros: - Produces cafe-quality espresso with thick crema - Integrated conical burr grinder grinds beans right before brewing - Many programming options to customize espresso shots - Fast heat up time - Easy to use controls and intuitive display - Solid stainless steel construction

Cons: - Expensive compared to entry-level espresso machines - Requires learning curve to master espresso techniques - Small water reservoir requires frequent refilling - Bean hopper could be larger

For espresso aficionados seeking the convenience of an all-in-one grinder-espresso machine combo, the Barista Express is hard to beat. It delivers commercial-grade performance without taking up excessive counter space. The learning curve is reasonable for an enthusiast-level machine, and the results are consistently top-notch once mastered.

Compared to other integrated espresso machines in this price range like the DeLonghi Dinamica or Breville Bambino Plus, the Barista Express stands out for its precise pressure control and extensive programming options to customize espresso parameters. For those willing to invest the time to learn proper espresso preparation, it's one of the best home models available before stepping up to a full commercial machine costing thousands more.