Appliances: House Blend

Paul Meyers

12/01/2007

Auto aficionados and espresso enthusiasts tend to schlep in separate social circles, but the new Sirena Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine is designed and engineered with both discriminating tastes in mind. The Sirena combines the delicate design of BMW, guru-technics of Saeco, and coffee expertise of Starbucks, to provide the most state-of-the-art brewing experience in the comfort of your own home. Designed for simplicity and ease of use, red LED lights indicate when the unit reaches the proper temperature for brewing and steaming, while a blue LED light indicates when the water tank needs a refill. Even if you are not the best barista, Sirena’s backpressure technology promises to deliver a perfect shot on every brew.

The system is engineered with two boilers in one—one for dripping espresso and another for steaming milk—and a professional grade stainless-steel pannarello steam-wand serves up a quick cappuccino with Sirena’s Rapid Steam feature. And should you be distracted mid-brew, a warming surface ensures that no cup goes cold while the machine is in operation. For those who would rather brew their own beans than wait in line at a coffee shop, the Sirena ($599) is available at Starbucks stores nationwide.

Starbucks Coffee Company, www.starbucks.com/sirena