FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q. Why is Domobar better than other brands of home espresso machines?
A. We believe there are two main reasons: the Domobar is made from superior quality components and it’s been tailored specifically for the New Zealand market.
And we're not the only ones who think Domobar is the benchmark for quality: since it was born in 1985 many manufacturers have attempted to copy Domobar’s superb engineering, and in particular the famous E61 group head. Imitation, as they say, is the sincerest form of flattery.
Of course you might think we’re being a little biased, so don’t take our word for it, check out these independent reviews:
www.biggie.co.nz/article/vibiemme_domobar_espresso
coffeegeek.com/reviews/commercial/vibiemme/richardsaddiction/6432
www.home-barista.com/vibiemme-domobar-super-review.html
Q. Where are Domobar espresso machines made?
A. In Italy by a company called Vibiemme, or VBM as they’re more colloquially known. Vibiemme was established in 1976 by Carlo Ernesto Valente following Faema's bankruptcy in 1975. Mr Valente the farther of the famous E61 group proceeded to increase the thermal stability of the E61 group resulting in the birth of the Vibiemme group model E61. This group head is synonymous with many 'firsts' in the industry, many of which are still found in most espresso machines around the world today.
Q. When did Domobar start making espresso machines?
A. 1979
Q. Who is Valente New Zealand ?
A. The Valente Coffee Machinery Company is New Zealand's master importer of Vibiemme espresso machines, including Domobar. They were the first espresso machinery importers independent of any coffee roaster in New Zealand, and still today their sole focus remains on bringing the very best espresso machines in the world to New Zealand, making their standards second to none. The Valente Coffee Machinery Company was also the first importer to re-engineer espresso machines specifically for local conditions.
Q. Who are Espresso Engineers and why do I get my servicing invoice from them?
A. Espresso Engineers are the official repairers and servicing providers for Domobar in New Zealand. For the past 12 years they have worked closely with Valente Coffee Machinery and the factory in Italy refining and re-engineering Domobar for the New Zealand market; meaning they know the machines like no one else. This smooth link between manufacturer, supplier and service provider puts us in the unique position of being able to provide feedback directly to the factory in Italy, which means you’ll keep getting the best Italian espresso machine for this market.
Q. Where do I get my machine serviced?
A. Espresso Engineers' workshop in Auckland is the official service provider for Domobar. Check our Service page for details on how to book your service.
Q. How do I learn to use my machine?
A. Essential Training will be offered to you for free when you purchase your machine. But if you'd like to learn how to do it like a professional and really impress your friends, then you can get more advanced Training with your local coffee roaster or with us in Auckland at the Domobar training room in Grey Lynn.
Q. How do I learn to taste espresso?
A. Learning to taste espresso is a bit like learning to taste wine, so if you'd like to know a bit more about the coffee you enjoy drinking then join us in our tasting room in Auckland for the Espresso Italiano Experience. This is an internationally certified course involving a practical & theory test.
The course is prepared by the International Institute of Coffee Tasters, www.coffeetasters.org, in conjunction with Espresso Italiano, www.espressoitaliano.org.
At the end of it we're pretty sure you won't look at a cup of coffee the same way again. Happy Tasting!
Q. How do I clean my machine?
A. Visit our Service page page for full details.
Q. What is the warranty on a Domobar espresso machine?
A. You get a 12 months warranty for your Domobar espresso machine.
Please register your new espresso machine with us and return your warranty card. In return we'll shout you a free 500ml milk jug worth $68 as a welcome gift.
Q. What is the difference between a Domobar Super and Junior?
A. The simple answer is that the Domobar Junior is a smaller and more compact machine that makes a great café quality coffee anywhere. The Domobar Super is slightly larger in size and is without a doubt the ultimate at-home commercial machine.
But for more detailed information and full specifications view our Domobar Junior, or Domobar Super specs.
Q. Do I need a grinder?
A. In a word, absolutely. In fact it’s the most critical part of the espresso making process. Achieving the correct consistency of particle size is vital to a good cup of coffee. Luckily our friends at Espresso Engineers import the world’s best coffee grinder. Check out the Domobar mazzer mini or www.mazzer.co.nz for more information.
Q. What sort of coffee do I use with my Domobar?
A. To a large extent that’s a matter of taste. There are a number of excellent coffee roasters throughout New Zealand. Please get in touch with us if you're interested.
If you would like to get more info or if you have any other questions we haven’t answered here, then please do get in touch with us.
