My ‘upgrade-itis’ for want of a better word, came from the fact that I knew I was never going to get even close to being able to appreciate ‘real coffee’ and the many different flavour profiles of different beans and combination of beans, unless I had the equipment to be able to grind and brew correctly. The only other limiting factor then was economics, and not just how much I was prepared to pay, but how much I could afford to pay. Once I had equipment good enough to open up that real coffee vista, I knew I had to stop.
Now it is down to me and my taste buds. If I come across a bean that ticks all my boxes, that has me sitting back with a deep sigh and puts a smile on my face every time I try it, then I might say that is my ‘go to’ bean and I’ll always make sure I’ve got some in. But, the beauty of this ‘hobby’ is that now for a few quid, I can still dip my toe in when the fancy takes me, or when someone gives a recommendation and buy a bag of beans to see what surprises they might throw up. The thing is, I haven’t found my ‘go to’ bean yet, and I think it will be a long and very happy journey before I do, so the Niche single dose grinder is perfect in that respect.
As for the espresso machine… I’ll admit I do still look with a certain amount of envy at some of the beautiful chrome syrens out there and think ‘what if’ but then I give myself a reality check and say for my pocket, my needs, blimey even for my limited ability in being able to taste whether I can get a hint of caramel, or peach or burnt toffee, my Sage DB will do. Of course, if that goes kaput… well then as Sean Connery once said ‘Never say never’.
I’ve been to Sweden a few times over the years as I have an old friend who lives in Trolhattan… Loved your Swedish kebab roll (dürum döner). I swear if someone opened up a shop over here selling them, they would make a fortune.
