Aerobie vs Bialetti
Following on the heels of yesterday’s love letter to my Bialetti, is today’s puzzlement at the Aerobie Aeropress Coffeemaker. First, let me say thank you to my father, who has only the best of intentions. He testifies to the quality of its brew and, as a gift, sent the Aerobie to us the other day so we might share in his caffeine nirvana. In deference to his generosity and enthusiasm, I will try it later today before rendering a full opinion on its virtues. That aside, man is this thing ugly! So many parts. All black and brown plastic. Could it ever outlast my prized Italian maker? There is a certain psychology inherent in the design and use of tools for food and beverage preparation. Personally, I would strive for a better marriage between form and function. This thing looks to be more like something one would encounter in the urology department of a large hospital rather than in a kitchen. Puts me in mind of another discussion regarding the Dyson Vacuum Cleaner. But I’ll save that for another day.
Thursday 09.15.11 at 11:11 am
Curious to hear what you think of the brew! For me it seems to make something very similar to cold-brew coffee, which I can make in a pleasing glass jar – no parts, and far better to look at.
Friday 09.16.11 at 4:10 pm
I’ve had one for a few months and there is some rationale behind the plastic, rather than glass design – including easier cleanup and portability while traveling. And I picked one up only after I saw how the high end coffee places in Manhattan were using them for more expensive blends.
The keys to using this successfully seem to be 1) use it upside down and 2) use only three of the parts.
I don’t remember where, but a bunch of people posted reviews on youtube, demonstrating all of this.