The Bezzera Aria is an attractive and featureful heat exchanger espresso machine, complete with a plumbable rotary pump, PID temperature controller and E61 flow control device. Added niceties like the double and bottomless portafilters, a true usable tamper and the updated design and branding show that Bezzera is paying close attention to features important to home baristas. Cut from the same cloth as machines like the BZ10, the Aria is still under 8 inches wide.
Features and Performance
Internally, the Aria houses a number of premium components that deliver both precision control and convenience. The standout feature is easily the Fluid-O-Tech rotary pump which is whisper-quiet when brewing and can achieve a max flow rate of 13.5g per second while brewing. The heat exchanger boiler has a 1.5L capacity and is made from copper, as is Bezzera’s preference. Temperature is regulated via a PID controller and can be adjusted in 1 degree increments. For added temperature stability, the boiler is fitted with a pair of eco brass endplates and wrapped in insulation.
On the exterior, the Aria’s housing features an attractive pattern of square cut-outs. The classic “Biscione” heraldry of Bezzera’s logo is as fierce as ever with a 3D textured design that roars with life on the back panel. The Aria uses a pair of joystick operated steam and hot water wands with spring-loaded valves that can be quickly tapped or locked in place depending on your preference.
While brewing, water flow from the pump to the group can be controlled via the E61 flow control device. Featuring a design unique to Bezzera machines, the oversized knob makes profiling flow simple and ergonomic, allowing you to repeat your desired extraction profiles with ease.
In the box, the Aria includes the following accessories:
Double Spout Portafilter, Bottomless Portafilter, 10g Single-Shot Basket, 20g Triple Shot Basket, Backflush Disc, Bezzera Logo Tamper and Drawstring Bag, E61 Flow Control Device Installation Kit, Water Level Sensor Cover, Group Cleaning Brush, Coffee Scoop
Why You Should Get It
The Aria is a welcome addition to the Bezzera lineup, offering a fresh look and compelling features at an affordable price. With its compact frame it will fit in most kitchens, and the option to plumb adds greater quality of life to the user experience. When it comes to brewing espresso, the tag team of the PID controller and the flow control device give you the precision you need to tease the best out of each extraction while still pulling double duty on streaming thanks to the heat exchanger boiler.
