The Cumulus Machine: A Frothy Marvel or a Cold Brew Conundrum?
For maybe the first time in my life, I have received expert praise for my “foam situation.” The foam in question was the bubbly top to a frigid espresso martini I’d just made in my home kitchen. And the “situation” was that there was a lot of it. The cocktail brimmed with satisfying crema as thick as the head on a Guinness—leading to kind words from an esteemed cocktail pro of my acquaintance.
The Cumulus Machine, a dedicated cold-brew device, has been making waves in the coffee world for its promise to create genuine cold brew within about a minute. Created by some big names in the coffee industry, including Mesh Gelman and Howard Schultz, the Cumulus offers a unique approach to cold brewing that sets it apart from other machines on the market.
Some Like It Cold
The rise in popularity of cold brew coffee has been remarkable in recent years, with the demand for cold caffeinated beverages on the rise. However, traditional cold brew methods can take up to 24 hours to brew, making it a time-consuming process for many individuals. This has led to the development of various machines designed to speed up the cold brewing process, with mixed results.
The Cumulus Machine stands out from the crowd by starting with genuine cold brew extracted from high-altitude coffee beans selected specifically for cold extraction. The coffee is then condensed using a proprietary process of vacuum distillation, resulting in a recyclable capsule that packs a double-shot’s worth of coffee into a small container.
Who’s Got the Flavor?
While the Cumulus Machine excels in creating frothy and textured cold brew beverages, some critics have noted that the flavor profile of the coffee made with this device lacks the unique character of classic cold brew. The capsules used in the machine offer a smooth, consistent flavor across different roasts, which may not appeal to coffee connoisseurs looking for more complex and robust flavors.
A Fine Froth
Where the Cumulus truly shines is in its ability to create frothy and textured beverages, such as nitro coffee and cold espresso. The nitro function on the Cumulus produces a dense head of bubbles that adds perceived sweetness and a creamy texture to the coffee. While the device pumps pure air into the coffee rather than using nitro cartridges, some critics have noted that prolonged exposure to oxygen can lead to oxidation flavors in the coffee over time.
Who’s the Cumulus For?
The Cumulus Machine offers a unique and convenient way to create cold brew beverages at home or in a business setting. While the device may not appeal to coffee purists or those looking for intricate flavor profiles, it provides a user-friendly and efficient method for making cold brew coffee with a frothy finish. The high price tag and the need for proprietary coffee capsules may be drawbacks for some consumers, but for those who value convenience and texture in their coffee, the Cumulus Machine could be a worthwhile investment.
In conclusion, the Cumulus Machine is a fascinating innovation in the world of cold brew coffee, offering a quick and easy way to create frothy and textured beverages. While the flavor profile may not satisfy all coffee enthusiasts, the device’s focus on convenience and user-friendly design makes it a compelling option for those looking to enjoy cold brew with a unique twist.