Lavazza Coffee Machines South Africa
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Chances are, if you’re reading this, you’ve either heard of Lavazza, have a deep-seated wish to own one, or are lucky enough to have a “Lavazza baby” of your own.
I don’t blame you – Lavazza is a name synonymous with Italian coffee solutions, and they boast an extensive range of coffee machines that can satisfy almost any coffee lovers’ needs.
Lavazza South Africa – A Brief History
Knowing your brand is an exciting and informative journey that we suggest you undertake when purchasing anything, really, but moreover a coffee machine. For example – Jura is a great brand, do some research on the company first. Researching a brands history will give you a great indication of their authority in the industry, their good standing as well as an idea how dedicated a brand is to evolving to satisfy and grow their customer base.
One hundred and twenty-one years; that’s how long Lavazza has been around. The founding forefather of Lavazza, Mr. Luigi Lavazza, opened up a grocery store in 1895. It may seem like a bit of a far reach to associate a grocery store with one of the best known coffee brands, but evolving with needs, having foresight and having the courage to “take the plunge” is what has made the brand what it is today.
Luigi Lavazza was exposed to an incredible amount of coffee beans, which he was responsible for sorting through for re-sale to his customers. Now, if you ask me, anyone who is “stuck” sorting coffee beans all day is bound to fall head-over-heels in love with the magical, tasty nuggets. Luigi embarked on a trip to Brazil after working with the coffee beans for quite some time, allowing him to fully immerse himself into what would become an art, in later times.
Fast forward thirty-two years, and we’re seeing Fiat motor cars going into production for the very first time, along with Mr. Lavazza himself taking some definably huge strides. What’s more important than this huge stride for economical growth in Italy was the birth and implementation of a now common method of coffee packaging – Pergamin. The double-layered packaging allowed for the magnificent fragrance of the coffee to be sealed inside. It would still be quite a few years until the CO2 gas-releasing-valve was implemented to keep the packaging breathable – but this packaging was the first noted movement towards effective coffee packaging, which we can still see today.
Nearly twenty years later, after WWII, and a crippling embargo on the import of coffee into Italy, Luigi Lavazza made yet another defining coffee industry stride. They streamlined their business into the reselling of packaged and branded coffee beans for sale to the public, as opposed to loose beans sold to whomsoever wanted them.
1950 may seem like an incomprehensibly long time ago for you and I, but coffee packaging was still in it’s infancy stages. Remarkably, we are still using similar technology in some other coffee brands to date, which goes to show that simplicity really is the solution. This is the year the vacuum-sealed tin can containing coffee beans was distributed to customers.
Another seven years on, Lavazza built it’s very own coffee bean roasting plant, which had a roasting capacity of 40 tons per day! This was a first time experience for Italy, which was in the middle of an economic firework show. Decaffeinated coffee made it’s debut appearance in 1959. Only six years later, Lavazza had explained to such an extent, they were able to open the record breaking largest coffee roasting plant in Europe.
1971, and the entire decade for that matter, was a bit of a tumultuous time. Economic issues meant people started giving up “luxuries” to make ends meet, meaning coffee sales spiralled downwards, and rapidly.
But as any good businessman/ businesswoman knows, you either roll with the times or you step out of the way to let someone else do it. Considering where Lavazza had already come from, they were not giving up. Instead, Lavazza introduced to us the forefather, and original, of what we have come to expect of coffee packaging. Vacuum packs revolutionised the way we store coffee; it was a much lower cost material, it shipped easier, and you could keep your “luxury” coffee purchase for linger – meaning a bit of a saving for the consumer.
As if that wasn’t enough. The Luigi Lavazza Center for Studies opened it’s doors in 1979, and to this day, remains the largest coffee school globally.
1989 – not only the year Taylor Swift was born, but the year Lavazza introduced a technology that was perhaps too far ahead of it’s time. The Lavazza Espresso Point system: an espresso machine that uses single-serve pre-packed coffee capsules. Yes, capsule coffee machines were invented as long ago as you and I were, but they only readily gained popularity on (I’d say) the last decade or so.
Social responsibility bolstered the brand to a new level in 2004, 109 years after Mr. Lavazza started his coffee journey. The Giuseppe and Pericle Lavazza Foundation, a non-profit organisation that seeks to improve people’s living conditions in coffee-growing countries, was born. This project has officially improved the living conditions of three-thousand coffee growers in 8 countries. This project is still in effect to date. Lavazza Blue, an exceptionally popular and modern coffee machine solution for offices was born in this year, too.
Now, we can imagine in-between all of these historical changes, Lavazza introduced some beautiful coffee machines to the market, but we’ll be gong through that in detail a little later.
But, as an end-off to the history of Lavazza, it’s incredible to see that they are responsible for the very first Espresso in space – yes – space! If that isn’t a sign of a brand’s capability to evolve and grow with trends, economical difficulties and the wants / needs of customers – then I don’t know what is!
Lavazza Coffee Machine Solutions
Lavazza Blue is the umbrella term for their range of office coffee machines. Lavazza has cleverly designed the range to include both Espresso-type coffee machines, coffee vending machines as well as capsule coffee machines. Because of their extensive range, it’s hard to do a direct comparison, but if something catches your eye – be sure to click on the link to find out more details!
1) Lavazza Coffee Machines
LB Compact
Ideal for a home or an office space of less than 5 people, who want the convenience of Lavazza Blue at the touch of a button. Compact and simplistic design.
LB 1100
Pininfarina design means this machine is luxury, elegance and undoubted style all wrapped into one. Never heard the term before? It’s a design that shaped the Lamborghini into what it is. Holding 17 used capsules at capacity, this machine is the bigger brother to the PB Compact.
LB 1150
Preziosa Fine black glass and aluminium finishings give an air of unmistakable regalness to this machine. It’s output capabilities and dimensions are very close to the LB 1100, so if you are looking to make a lasting impression, this may be the logical step up.
LB 1200 Galactica
We have now stepped up into the realm of fresh milk machines. We know fresh milk is a vital step to achieving café-quality coffee at home. Combining the convenience of capsules with fresh milk, pre-set buttons further allow you to brew cappuccino’s, latte macchiato’s and chocolate flavoured drinks. The design of this machine is sleek and modern, and has surprisingly small dimensions for what it can do.
LB 2300
Single Cup – Yet another Pininfarina designed machine, this capsule machine has an output capacity (in terms of water tank size) of 100 Espresso’s! (That’s a 4litre tank capacity). This makes it a nice fit for a smaller to medium office.
LB 2301
Single Cup Steam is the handsome twin of the LB 2300; with the addition of a steam wand, you can whip up a fresh milk cappuccino and still have the convenience of a capsule coffee.
LB2302 Double Cup
The biggest selling feature of this particular model is ease of convenience. It has precisely the same layout (including the steam wand) as the 2301 Single Cup Steam – but it has a double spout. The same 4 litre water tanks means you’ll get the exact same output, but you can dispense two cups of coffee at once. A better consideration for those who value the convenience of a quicker cup of coffee.
LB 4700 WEGA
We have again moved into a completely new league with this type of machine. While the machine is capable of utilising pre-ground coffee, it is also compatible with Lavazza Blue capsules. A great choice for your café space, with it’s cup warmer, double porta-filter and double steam wand for frothing milk.
LB 4100
Imagine a restaurant-quality coffee machine, designed to fit into a compact space. An eight cup warmer, double porta-filter and double steam wand, this machine does the same amount of work in half the space.
Colibri Automatic
This is the smallest automatic coffee machine in the vending range, and suits a smaller office-type environment best. With it’s 8-selection panel and vending machine layout, it’s ease of use is a winning point. It has a capsule capacity of 140 capsules.
Colibri Semi-Automatic
This machine carries all the convenience of the Colibri Automatic, but sugar, spoons and cups need to be manually dispensed. This is something to consider if your aim for obtaining a coffee solution is to control usage – this machine may not provide you with the level of control you need. It also boasts a capsule capacity of 140 capsules
Colibri Manuale
Also boasting an 8-drink selection display, but no external bean hopper or internal grinder. Great for office environments where users will be regular, and not “new users” – who may find the manual systems a bit tricky at first. It also has a 140-capsule capacity.
Brio
We level up again on this machine; the Brio coffee vending machine sports a 14-drink-selection display and has capacity for 240 capsules! This machine is automatic, easy to use and best suited to a larger office environment.
Kikko by Lavazza
Is an excellently suited coffee solution for larger business and communities. It’s 280 capsule capacity means a high turnaround time for a large output, and if you’re looking for a hybrid solution to cater to considerably large amounts, consider this choice.
2) Lavazza Coffee Machine Sizing Specifications
This part of a consideration taken when buying or renting a coffee machine is far too often overlooked. What if the machine is in your budget, suits your needs and ticks all the proverbial boxes – but when it arrives at your doorstep, it’s 2cm too high to fit into the space you so carefully set aside for it?
Check out the sizing specs below for all your favourite Lavazza Coffee Machines!
Lavazza LB Compact
Width – 13cm | Height 23.5cm | Depth 36cm | Weight 3.6kg
Lavazza LB 1100
Width – 27.5.cm | Height – 36.5cm | Depth – 29cm | Weight 8.7kg
Lavazza LB 1150 Preziosa
Width – 31.5cm | Height – 36.5cm | Depth – 31cm | Weight – 14kg
Lavazza 1200 Galactica
Width – 36.5cm | Height – 36.5cm | Depth – 29cm | Weight – 8.7kg
Lavazza 2300 Single Cup
Width – 36.5cm | Height – 36.5cm | Depth – 29cm | Weight – 8.7kg
Lavazza 2301 Single Cup Steam
Width – 36.5cm | Height – 36.5cm | Depth – 29cm | Weight – 8.7kg
Lavazza LB2302 Double Cup
Width – 36.5cm | Height – 36.5cm | Depth – 29cm | Weight – 8.7kg
Lavazza LB 4700 WEGA
Width – 73cm | Height – 54.5cm | Depth – 55.5cm | Weight – 76kg
Lavazza 4100
Width – 56cm | Height – 46.7cm | Depth – 48cm | Weight – 30kg
Lavazza Colibri Automatic
Width – 41cm | Height – 65 / 85 cm | Depth – 49cm | Weight – 38kg | Size with door open – 83cm
Lavazza Colibri Semi-Automatic
Width – 41cm | Height – 65 / 85 cm | Depth – 49cm | Weight – 38kg | Size with door open 83cm
Lavazza Colibri Manuale
Width – 41cm | Height – 65cm | Depth 49cm | Weight – 28kg | Size with door open – 28kg
Lavazza Brio
Width – 54cm | Height – 98cm | Depth – 58.5cm | Weight – 65kg | Size with door open – 100cm
Lavazza Kikko
Width – 54cm | Height – 170cm | Depth – 69cm | Weight – 114kg | Height with top open – 69cm | Size with door open – 112cm
3) Lavazza Blue Coffee Capsules
Lavazza Blue Coffee Capsules are compatible with the majority of their office-tailored coffee machine solutions, and they hold an exciting variety of flavours, which surely anyone can find their favourite in.
Lavazza Espresso Dolce
100% Arabica | Flavour – 4/5 | Body – 4/5 | Intensity – 3.5/5oast, with notes of caramelised nuts
Lavazza Caffe Crema
100% Arabica | Flavour – 3.5/5 | Body – 2.5/5 | Intensity – 2.5/5 | Medium roast profile and one of the most popular capsules in the Lavazza range.
Lavazza Espresso Intenso
40% Arabica (Brazil & Central America) & 60% Robusta (South East Asia) | Flavour – 3/5 | Body – 4/5 | Intensity – 4.5/5 | Medium roast with notes of caramelised nuts.
Lavazza Espresso Rotondo
100% Arabica | Flavour – 4.5/5 | Body – 5/5 | Intensity – 5/5 | Dark roast with a rich, velvety blend.
Lavazza Espresso Ricco
40% Brazilian Arabica, 60% Asian Robusta | Flavour – 4/5 | Body – 5/5 | Intensity – 4.5/5 | Dark roast with notes of caramel.
Lavazza Espresso Decaffeinato
100% Arabica | Flavour – 3/5 | Body – 3.5/5 | Intensity – 4/5 | Medium roast with notes of caramelised nuts.
Lavazza Espresso Tierra
100% Arabica from Honduras, Peru and Colombia. Sustainable development promoted by Lavazza aimed at product excellence and improved quality of life for coffee growers.
Flavour – 5/5 | Body – 3/5 | Intensity – 3/5 | Medium roast with notes of caramelised nuts.
4) Lavazza A Modo Mio Coffee Capsules – For Home Use
Lavazza has gone so far as to personalise their range of coffee capsules to be suited either to an office-based coffee machine, or to your home-based user; the Lavazza A Modo Mio Coffee Capsules are tailored more to the home user.
Lavazza Espresso Intenso A Modo Mio Capsules
Intense, full-bodied, well-rounded flavour | Flavour – 3/5 | Body – 5/5 | Intensity – 5/5 | Medium roast described as “A blend of volcanic lands that smells of spicy perfumes and fine woods”
Lavazza Espresso Passionale A Modo Mio Capsules
Harmonious, full-flavoured, smooth flavour | Flavour – 4/5 | Body – 4/5 | Intensity – 5/5 | A dark roast described as “A blend that wraps you in a warm and passionate embrace.”
Lavazza Espresso Delisioso A Modo Mio Capsules
Well rounded, smooth, aromatic flavour | | Flavour – 4/5 | Body – 3/5 | Intensity – 3.5/5 | Medium roast described as “An elegant and perfect blend, of floral inspiration.”
Lavazza Dek Cremoso A Modo Mio Capsules
Full-flavoured and well balanced decaffeinated coffee | Flavour – 3/5 | Body | 4/5 | Intensity – 3/5 | A medium roast described as “The great personality of a perfect espresso in a caffeine-free version.”
Lavazza Lungo Dolce A Modo Mio Capsule
Smooth, well rounded and creamy flavour | Flavour – 5/5 | Body – 3/5 | Intensity – 3/5 | A medium roast described as “Pure sweetness and special creaminess.”
5) Lavazza Coffee Beans
Want your coffee fresher than capsule to cup? The Lavazza range of coffee beans include complex flavours, developed aroma’s and a taste variety sure to suit even the fussiest of coffee drinkers. They are compatible with the higher-end, office tailored coffee machines and some selected home use machines.
Lavazza Super Crema Coffee Beans
With a flavour and body rating of 4/5, he undeniable aroma’s of honey and dried fruit. The coffee bean origins are that of natural Arabica from Brazil, washed Indian Arabica and high quality Columbian and Robusta from Indonesia and Vietnam.
Lavazza Crema E Aroma Coffee Beans
This medium roast has a flavour profile rating of 4/5 for flavour, and a full score of 5/5 for body. Expect a lend with a consistent crema and a strong character, with an after taste of dry fruits, bitter cocoa and precious woods.
Lavazza Gran Espresso Coffee Beans
Italian espresso with a rich and balanced taste. An aroma of dark chocolate and spices for a creamy espresso – with a flavour profile of 4/5, and a body fullness rating of 4.5/5 -exceptional for a medium roast profile.
Lavazza Filter Classico Coffee Beans
This range is available in both pre-ground and whole beans, and lends the combination of full flavour and intensity. This medium roast carries notes of cocoa and spices – and has a flavour profile rating of 4/5, and a body-fullness rating of 5/5.
Lavazza Tierra Specialty Coffee Beans
As we saw in the Tierra Capsule range, this specific blend focuses on sustainable growth, a superior product and sufficient support and payment to coffee growers. Arabica range carries a fruity flavour profile, with hints of milk chocolate, as well as a 5/5 flavour profile. Aromatic, guilt-free coffee is here.
How do Lavazza Coffee Beans measure up against run-of-the mill, store-bought coffee beans? Well, coffee beans vary vastly in terms of flavour and intensity – within each range of each brand.
What truly sets Lavazza coffee beans apart is the history behind the brand, and the pure dedication allocated to each and every product – from their coffee machine range, to their tailored capsule solutions as well as their commitment to sustainability and consistency.
It would be unfair to try compare Lavazza against any pother brand – as each has their own set of advantages and disadvantages. What we can say without a hint of a doubt is that the Lavazza range of coffee products includes some of the widest possible variety – and caters to an endless amount of personal preferences and tastes.
Lavazza’s African footprint spans from Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, Equatorial Guinea, Angola, Tanzania and Johannesburg. Locally, Lavazza is located in Bryanston is under the umbrella group of Entyce Beverages.
If you’re looking to source any of the Lavazza Coffee Machines or coffee products, you can find Entyce Beverages at 30 Sloane Street in Bryanston – or contact them at 011 707 7100.
“According to Lavazza, quality is not “controlled”, but “built”. It is an active process repeated every day that involves everybody and is an intrinsic part of every phase of production. Quite simply, it is the only way of working that we know.”
