Kwister CM1687 Espresso Machine: Brew Barista-Quality Coffee at Home

Update on June 8, 2025, 4:55 p.m.

The Morning Ritual Reimagined: Craving Café Perfection at Home

There’s a certain magic to the morning coffee ritual, isn’t there? For many of us across North America, it’s the quiet overture to a busy day, a moment of solace, or a flavorful jolt of inspiration. Often, this ritual involves a trip to a favorite café, where a skilled barista conjures up that perfect espresso, its aroma a captivating promise, or a latte crowned with velvety microfoam. But what if you could orchestrate that same café-quality performance within the comforting confines of your own kitchen? What if the secrets to that rich, nuanced flavor weren’t so secret after all?

This is the quest of the aspiring home barista: to bridge the gap between that deep-seated craving for exceptional coffee and the delicious reality of crafting it themselves. It’s a journey fueled by passion, a dash of curiosity, and the understanding that great coffee is less about arcane wizardry and more about a fascinating interplay of science and art. And like any artisan, the home barista needs the right tools – instruments designed not just to perform a task, but to empower creativity and precision. This is where a machine like the Kwister CM1687 20 Bar Espresso Coffee Maker steps onto the stage, promising to be a capable partner in your pursuit of the perfect cup. But before we delve into its specific features, let’s first explore the fundamental principles that govern the soul of every great espresso.
 Kwister CM1687 20 Bar Espresso Coffee Maker

Decoding Espresso: The Alchemy of Pressure, Temperature, and Time

At its heart, espresso is a concentrated coffee beverage brewed by forcing a small amount of nearly boiling water through finely-ground coffee beans under significant pressure. It sounds simple, yet within this process lies a delicate dance of variables, each critical to the final taste, aroma, and texture.

The Pressure Principle: More Than Just a Number

You’ll often hear “bars” of pressure discussed in the world of espresso machines – the Kwister CM1687, for instance, highlights its 20 Bar Professional Pump. But what does this really mean for your coffee? The industry gold standard for the actual pressure exerted on the coffee grounds during extraction is around 9 bars, roughly nine times the atmospheric pressure at sea level. This specific pressure is key to emulsifying the coffee oils with a small amount of CO2 (naturally present in freshly roasted beans), creating that signature reddish-brown, persistent foam known as crema. It also allows for the efficient dissolution of flavorful solids from the coffee grounds into the water in a relatively short time.

So, why a pump rated at 20 bars? Think of it as having a car engine with ample horsepower. While you might not use all that power all the time, it ensures the system can consistently deliver the target pressure (around 9 bars at the group head) reliably and stably, even if there are slight variations in how finely your coffee is ground or how firmly you’ve tamped it into the portafilter. A robust pump provides the necessary force to overcome the resistance of the coffee puck and ensure water flows through it evenly, preventing under-extraction in some areas and over-extraction in others. The Kwister product information notes its 20 Bar pump “extracts rich crema,” and indeed, consistent and adequate pressure is foundational to achieving that desirable outcome.

Temperature’s Tightrope Walk: The Flavor Guardian

If pressure is the force, temperature is the delicate conductor of the espresso orchestra. Water that’s too hot will scorch the delicate aromatic compounds in the coffee, leading to a harsh, bitter, and unpleasant brew. Conversely, water that’s too cool will fail to extract the full spectrum of flavors, resulting in a brew that’s sour, weak, and underdeveloped. The ideal brewing temperature for espresso typically falls within a narrow window of 195-205°F (90-96°C).

The Kwister CM1687 employs an NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) temperature control system to meticulously manage this. According to its specifications, it aims for a brewing temperature of 197°F (approximately 92°C) and a higher temperature of 248°F (approximately 120°C) for generating steam for milk frothing. An NTC thermistor is a type of sensor whose electrical resistance changes predictably with temperature. This allows the machine’s control system to constantly monitor the water temperature and make rapid adjustments to the heating element, ensuring the water stays within that crucial optimal range for brewing. This precision is vital for unlocking the nuanced sweetness, acidity, and body that different coffee beans possess, and for achieving shot-to-shot consistency. The separate, higher temperature for steam is equally important for producing strong, dry steam capable of perfectly texturing milk.

 Kwister CM1687 20 Bar Espresso Coffee Maker

The Golden Window: Extraction Time & Volume

The “perfect shot” of espresso is typically extracted within a “golden window” of 20 to 30 seconds. This isn’t an arbitrary number; it’s the period during which the most desirable flavor compounds are extracted. Too short, and you get an under-extracted, sour shot (often called a “gusher”). Too long, and you venture into over-extraction, pulling out bitter and astringent compounds.

Extraction time is intimately linked with grind size, the amount of coffee used (the dose), and the pressure applied. The Kwister CM1687 offers flexibility here with pre-set volumes for a single shot (1.35oz / ~40ml) and a double shot (2.7oz / ~80ml), alongside a Manual-Control option. This manual control, as stated in the product information, allows you to “control the amount of coffee by yourself,” effectively letting you manage the extraction time and final volume. This is crucial because different beans and roasts, and even your personal preference for strength (the coffee-to-water ratio, or brew ratio), might call for slight adjustments to achieve the ideal balance. Being able to stop the shot when you decide it’s perfect is a significant step towards barista-level control.

Crema - The Espresso’s Crown

No discussion of espresso science is complete without paying homage to the crema. This beautiful, reddish-brown to golden layer of fine foam isn’t just for show; it’s a complex emulsion of CO2 bubbles, coffee oils, and suspended solids. A good crema contributes to the espresso’s aroma, mouthfeel (body), and lingering aftertaste. Its color, thickness, and persistence can offer visual cues about the freshness of the beans (fresher beans with more CO2 produce more crema), the accuracy of the grind, the evenness of the tamp, and the quality of the extraction itself. While not the sole indicator of a great shot, a well-formed crema is certainly a satisfying hallmark of a brew where the science has been respected.

 Kwister CM1687 20 Bar Espresso Coffee Maker

The Kwister CM1687: Your Partner in Coffee Craftsmanship

Understanding these scientific underpinnings is one thing; consistently applying them is another. This is where a well-designed espresso machine like the Kwister CM1687 aims to assist, providing the control and stability needed to turn theory into delicious practice.

Heart of the Machine: The 20-Bar Pump & NTC Brain

As we’ve seen, pressure and temperature are the twin pillars of espresso extraction. The CM1687’s 20-Bar pump and NTC temperature control system are its heart and brain, respectively, working in concert. The pump ensures there’s always ample, stable pressure on tap, ready to overcome the coffee puck’s resistance. Simultaneously, the NTC system acts like a vigilant thermal regulator, keeping the brewing water at that sweet spot of 197°F and ensuring the steam system is primed at 248°F for when you’re ready to tackle milk drinks. It’s this synergy that provides the consistent foundation necessary for repeatable, high-quality results. Imagine trying to conduct an orchestra where the tempo (pressure) and pitch (temperature) are constantly erratic – chaos would ensue! This machine strives to provide that crucial stability.

Command at Your Fingertips: The Intuitive TFT Touch Panel

Interacting with your espresso machine shouldn’t feel like deciphering an ancient script. The Kwister CM1687 features a TFT (Thin-Film Transistor) touch screen panel, described as waterproof, dustproof, and anti-fingerprint. Beyond its modern aesthetic and durability, a TFT screen offers a clear, responsive, and often more intuitive user interface compared to traditional buttons or dials. This makes selecting your shot (single, double, or initiating manual control) straightforward. The product information highlights “Easy to Operate,” and a well-designed touch interface contributes significantly to this. When you’re perhaps still a bit bleary-eyed in the morning, or keen to experiment with different parameters, an uncomplicated control system is a welcome feature. It allows you to focus on the coffee itself, rather than wrestling with the machine.

Milk’s Magical Transformation: The Art & Science of Frothing

For many, the allure of an espresso machine extends to its ability to create luscious milk-based beverages like cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos. The Kwister CM1687 is equipped with a 360° rotating stainless steel frothing wand that is also detachable for easier cleaning. The science of milk frothing involves injecting hot steam into cold milk. This does two things: it heats the milk, and it incorporates air by stretching the milk’s proteins, creating foam. The goal for most specialty coffee drinks is to create “microfoam” – a dense, velvety foam with bubbles so small they are almost invisible, giving the milk a texture akin to wet paint. This is essential for latte art and contributes to a wonderfully creamy mouthfeel.

The machine’s ability to produce “powerful and stable steam” (thanks to that NTC-controlled 248°F steam temperature) is vital here. Weak or “wet” (watery) steam makes it difficult to achieve fine microfoam. The product description also notes, “With steam jacket: thick milk microfoam. Without steam jacket: thin milk microfoam,” suggesting an element of control over the aeration process, allowing you to tailor the foam to your desired drink style. The rotating wand offers maneuverability, allowing you to find the optimal angle and position for your milk pitcher.

 Kwister CM1687 20 Bar Espresso Coffee Maker

Thoughtful Touches for a Superior Experience

Beyond the core brewing and steaming technologies, several other features of the Kwister CM1687 contribute to a more convenient and refined home barista experience:

  • The 50 OZ (approx. 1.5L) Removable Water Tank: A generous water capacity means fewer interruptions for refills, especially if you’re making multiple drinks or enjoy Americanos (espresso diluted with hot water). The removability also simplifies filling from the tap and cleaning the tank itself. The manual wisely advises keeping the water level between the “MAX” and “MIN” marks.
  • The Cup Warmer: The top of the machine often serves as a passive cup warming area. Why is this important? Brewing hot espresso (ideally served around 150-160°F or 65-70°C) into a cold ceramic cup will cause an immediate and significant drop in the coffee’s temperature. This can mute its delicate aromatic compounds and cause the crema to dissipate more quickly. A pre-warmed cup helps maintain the coffee’s optimal serving temperature, preserving its full flavor profile and sensory appeal. It’s a small detail that makes a noticeable difference.
  • Child Lock Function: A practical safety feature, especially in households with curious little ones, preventing accidental operation of the machine.
  • Easy Cleaning Design: The manual mentions a “detachable drip tray” and the detachable steam wand. Regular cleaning is paramount for both coffee quality and machine longevity. Coffee oils and milk residue can quickly build up, becoming rancid and imparting off-flavors to subsequent brews, and potentially clogging the machine’s internal components. Features that simplify this essential maintenance are always a plus. The instruction to clean the steam pipe after frothing by delivering a burst of steam is also a good standard practice.
     Kwister CM1687 20 Bar Espresso Coffee Maker

Your Home Barista Journey: From Bean to Blissful Sip

Owning a capable espresso machine like the Kwister CM1687 is like acquiring a fine musical instrument; it has the potential to create beautiful results, but the quality of the “music” also depends on the quality of the “score” (your beans) and the skill of the “musician” (you!).

The Unsung Hero: Bean Freshness & the Right Grind

No espresso machine, no matter how advanced, can magically transform stale, improperly ground beans into a divine elixir. Freshly roasted coffee beans are essential. As beans age after roasting, they lose CO2 (vital for crema) and their aromatic compounds degrade. Aim to buy beans with a “roasted on” date, ideally using them within a few weeks of that date.

Equally crucial is the grind. Espresso requires a very fine, consistent grind. If it’s too coarse, water will rush through too quickly, resulting in a weak, sour, under-extracted shot. If it’s too fine, water will struggle to pass through, leading to a slow, bitter, over-extracted shot. The Kwister product information rightly advises, “Please choose right thickness of powder…If the powder is too fine, there is standing water in the portafilter. If powder is too coarse, the extraction will very fast and no crema.” While the CM1687 doesn’t include a grinder, investing in a good quality burr grinder (rather than a blade grinder) is highly recommended for anyone serious about espresso.

The Elixir of Life (for Coffee): Water Quality Matters

Coffee is over 98% water, so the quality of your water will significantly impact the taste of your brew. Tap water can vary greatly in mineral content and may contain chlorine or other off-tastes. Using filtered water is generally a good practice, not only for flavor but also to prevent scale buildup inside your machine, which can affect performance and longevity. The manual for the CM1687 includes instructions for descaling, a necessary maintenance step, especially in hard water areas.

Brewing Rituals & Tips: Embracing the Process

The “Operation Steps” outlined for the Kwister CM1687 provide a clear pathway: fill the water tank, start the machine to preheat (wait for the lights to become steady), add your coffee grounds to the portafilter (the manual suggests not exceeding the MAX line and keeping the rim clean to avoid leaks), tamp firmly, install the portafilter correctly, and then select your brew.

A few universal tips can elevate your experience: * Distribute your grounds evenly in the portafilter before tamping to promote even extraction. * Tamp with consistent pressure. The goal is a level, compacted puck of coffee. * Purge the group head by running a little water through it just before locking in the portafilter. This helps stabilize the temperature and clear any old grounds. * Observe your extraction. Look for the “mouse tail” flow – a steady, syrupy stream of espresso. * Clean immediately. Wipe the steam wand right after use, and empty and rinse the portafilter promptly.

Taste, Tweak, Triumph: Embracing Experimentation

The beauty of home espresso is the journey of discovery. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Use the manual control on the CM1687 to play with different shot times and volumes. Try different beans, adjust your grind size slightly, and pay attention to how these changes affect the taste. Keep notes if it helps. That slight adjustment might be the key to unlocking your perfect signature brew. This is where you truly become a home barista, moving from following instructions to intuitively crafting coffee that delights your palate.
 Kwister CM1687 20 Bar Espresso Coffee Maker

Bringing the Café Soul Home: More Than Just a Machine

In the end, a machine like the Kwister CM1687 20 Bar Espresso Coffee Maker is more than just an assembly of stainless steel, plastic, and aluminum components. It’s an enabler. It’s a tool designed to take the complex science of espresso and make it accessible, empowering you to recreate those cherished café moments in the comfort and creativity of your own kitchen. It’s an invitation from the Kwister brand to “Enjoy coffee at home” and “Bring Barista Home.”

 Kwister CM1687 20 Bar Espresso Coffee Maker

The quiet satisfaction of hearing the pump engage, watching the rich espresso flow, inhaling that intoxicating aroma, and taking that first, perfect sip of a coffee you crafted yourself – these are the daily joys that await. It’s about transforming a routine into a ritual, a beverage into an experience. So, embrace the science, hone your art, and let your home barista journey begin. The world of exquisite coffee, brewed by you, for you, is ready to be explored.