A New Approach to Cold Brew
For lovers of cold coffee, quick-brew options typically come down to hot-brewed espresso poured over ice or machines that produce tepid, weak results. While many commercial brewers exist, most are large steeping vessels that require advance notice. The Cuisinart Concentra aims to fill this gap with an automatic machine that uses pressure to produce cold brew concentrate in about five minutes.
Pros & Cons
The machine produces excellent quality cold brew in five minutes without requiring paper filters. It features a simple, intuitive operation and a portable cup for on-the-go use, all within a lightweight, compact footprint.
Drawbacks include a concentrate cup that feels inexpensive for the price point and the lack of a digital timer or countdown indicator to track the brewing cycle.
The Concentra steeps rapidly under pressure and dispenses a single serving of concentrated cold brew, ready to be diluted over ice.
Technical Specifications
The device functions as an automatic cold brew coffee maker with settings for concentrate and various iced coffee sizes, dispensing water alongside the concentrate.
Dimensions: 8.92″D x 7.11″W x 12.6″H
Weight: 6.75 lbs
Price: $100
Setup and Operation
As a single-function coffee maker, the Cuisinart Concentra is straightforward. The only setup required is inserting the provided water filter into the reservoir. Users can go from unboxing to brewing in less than a minute.
The menu offers five programs: the primary cold brew concentrate function and four iced coffee sizes that dispense the correct ratio of water and concentrate into the vessel.
Performance and Design
The cold brew concentrate produced is genuinely potent, requiring dilution with water and ice. By using pressure rather than heat, the machine delivers a room-temperature concentrate in approximately five minutes.
The machine includes thoughtful touches, such as a side compartment for the coffee scoop and a built-in metal mesh filter that removes the need for paper filters. The base also adjusts in height to accommodate the concentrate cup and minimize splashing.
The device consistently produces high-quality, flavorful cold brew.
Critique and Verdict
While there is little to criticize, some users may find the 2-ounce concentrate portion small compared to commercial coffee shop sizes. However, this volume is highly concentrated, equivalent to several shots of espresso.
The water reservoir is relatively small, which may require daily refilling, though this ensures the use of fresh water for better-tasting coffee.
The concentrate cup is functional and sealable but has a somewhat cheap aesthetic. Overall, the system is a highly effective, space-saving tool for those who enjoy cold brew at home.
Final Assessment
The Cuisinart Concentra stands out as a unique, efficient device for cold brew lovers. Its ability to produce a single portion quickly, without the need for long-term storage, makes it a practical addition to any coffee enthusiast's collection.
