Verdict

Pros

• Prepare coffee via an app
• Integral milk frother
• Brews multiple cup sizes

Cons

• Investment buy
• Uses only compatible pods
• Not dishwasher safe

What is the Nespresso Expert&Milk?

With the ability to be operated via a Bluetooth Smart app much like Nespresso’s first connected capsule machine, the Nespresso Prodigio, Expert&Milk takes coffee-making to the next level. It’s been designed to offer a greater choice of personalised drinks, boasting an integral milk frother, four adaptable serving sizes (ristretto, espresso, lungo, and the new Americano using 25ml coffee and 125ml hot water) plus 200ml hot water, and three temperature settings (warm, hot and extra hot) so you can have your coffee exactly how you like it.

Part of the next-generation, flat-to-the-wall machines inspired by professional kit, Expert&Milk’s wide but shallow shape is also a plus for kitchens with limited space, since it can fit at the rear of worktops. It’s available in Off Black and Anthracite Grey.

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Nespresso Expert&Milk – Design and Features

While it’s recognisably a coffee machine, Expert&Milk’s exterior is a design revolution. Rather than the usual front-to-back configuration, it’s been thoughtfully arranged. Its dispensing spout features a separate hot water outlet that makes Americanos by adding water after the coffee, resulting in a drink without bitterness.

Next to it sit two minimal dials, which control the cup size (this can be altered even if it’s started brewing) and temperature manually; or, these can be configured via the app. On top, a slider reveals a space into which the capsule drops, while a discreet button turns the machine on and is used to brew a drink. It switches itself off after nine minutes of inactivity; this can be extended up to eight hours.

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Below, a magnetic drip tray can be moved side to side to adapt to different cup sizes, meaning there’s no need to keep removing it. Water tank size can be an issue, but the Expert&Milk holds the usual litre capacity. Finally, the hot and cold milk frother will keep latte lovers happy. Instead of the separate Aeroccino, it’s an integral part, so it doesn’t require an extra plug.

Nespresso Expert&Milk – What is it like to use?

To be able to use the app to control the machine, first I had to pair it. Unfortunately, despite repeated attempts with an Android phone, I wasn’t able to do this. It did, however, pair first time with an iPhone, so it’s a good idea to check device compatibility before you buy.

The app controlled only the coffee-brewing element, not the milk frother. It does offer other useful functionality, though: it can keep track of capsule stock management, water tank level and send descaling notifications.

The machine’s thermoblock was ready to brew in about 25 seconds. I started by using the app to make a hot ristretto. After selecting the cup size and temperature, the app sent the request. Only when the request had been sent did the settings on the machine change, so it wasn’t responsive step by step. There was also the option to save different drink combinations as favourites and set a schedule for a coffee. The Expert&Milk automatically ejected the used capsule into the internal bin, so brewing was achieved entirely without touching the machine.

Related: Gaggia Classic Deluxe Coffee Station review

The Expert&Milk’s manual controls were as simple to use. Keeping the cup platform in place, I turned the dials to espresso and extra hot and pressed the button on the top. Since this was the button that turns on the machine, it felt a little confusing that it wasn’t also the button that turned it off; that function is handled by turning the temperature dial down to zero. As a result, it may take some getting used to.

Next, I moved the platform to the other side to make room for a larger cup. I selected the Americano option. It dispensed a shot of coffee first, before switching to a steady stream of hot water. While this was brewing, I filled the integral Aeroccino with milk and pressed the button on the front for hot frothy milk. It was especially handy that brewing and milk could be done at the same time. After switching off, I emptied the capsule container – it’s a clever two-part design that splits, so there’s no need to throw water in the bin along with the capsules.

Nespresso Expert&Milk – How good is the coffee?

Whether you prefer shots of coffee or longer drinks, the Expert&Milk accommodates – each cup I made was flavourful, aromatic and came with a rich, silky crema. Nespresso’s ever-increasing variety of coffees, which also includes decaffeinated and flavoured options, ensures you’ll never get bored. The machine’s Aeroccino also produces its frothy warm milk to a similarly high standard – it’s consistently smooth and doesn’t collapse when decanted.

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Should I buy the Nespresso Expert&Milk?

For those frustrated by the lack of options on their current coffee machine, the Expert&Milk could be just the machine to reignite your interest. Its multiple combinations are great at satisfying every member of a household and guests, while the ability to make coffee remotely could prove useful for time-poor mornings.

It would have been handy had removable parts, such as the capsule container, be cleaned in the dishwasher, and if there was some help online for connectivity issues – but these are niggles. For devoted coffee drinkers, its seamless functionality and unparalleled style make the Expert&Milk deserving of its name and price tag.

Verdict

Serves up barista-style coffee almost any way you like it.

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