In-Depth Review: Nespresso Vertuo x Pantone Mandarin Orange | CheckItOut with Young Lim

While I enjoy a good cup of coffee in the morning, I wouldn’t call myself a hardcore drinker. I suspect most homeowners are just like me too - you like your brew but you just have no time to delve into the complexities of coffee making. Now I’m the kind of person who gets a little uncomfortable when I find myself in the midst of coffee fanatics, who readily dive into conversations about optimal brewing temperatures, grind sizes, or extraction times. What I do appreciate, however, is a coffee machine that delivers a decent cup without requiring me to overthink every detail. It should be compact enough to fit into my lounge area without transforming it into a mini Starbucks or making me feel like I’m moonlighting as a barista, bonus if it looks modern and neat. Surprisingly, the Nespresso Vertuo Pop x Pantone ticks all these boxes, and when my old machine finally gave up, it was the perfect replacement I didn’t know I needed.

This stunning machine not only ensures an exceptional coffee experience but also adds a vibrant pop of color to my space. Utilising state-of-the-art Centrifusion technology, each cup is infused with bold flavor and a flawless crema (that’s about the only coffee jargon I know), leaving me fully content. Additionally, the Nespresso Aeroccino machine, which came with the bundle I got, simplifies the process of creating velvety, frothy milk for my cappuccinos. Join me as I delve into my journey with the Vertuo Pop capsule coffee maker.

Nespresso x Pantone Vertuo Pop

The Nespresso x Pantone Collaboration

When I first heard about the collaboration in May, I thought it was a rather odd combination for a coffee pod brand to team up with a colour expert. After all, what could they have in common, right? Wrong. Partnerships like the one between Nespresso and Pantone don’t often come along, especially in the coffee space and for good reason. But this is a union forged from a shared vision to elevate the everyday coffee experience by marrying it with stunning aesthetics. Nespresso, known for its rich coffee heritage, and Pantone, the authority on color, collaborated at Nespresso’s headquarters in Vevey, Switzerland. Here, they meticulously curated a color palette that reflects the essence of the Mediterranean Riviera, blending design with sensory enjoyment.

What I find particularly exciting about this collaboration is the way it pushes the boundaries of what we expect from our coffee machines. By combining the sophistication of Nespresso’s coffee technology with Pantone’s vibrant color expertise, they’ve created an immersive experience that transforms your morning brew from a mundane ritual into a celebratory act of self-care. The colours evoke nostalgia, joy, and creativity, allowing all coffee drinkers (from the connoisseurs to the casual, one-cup-a-day enthusiasts like myself) to express our individuality through our choice of appliance.

Moreover, this partnership is not just about the visuals; it’s part of a larger campaign entitled “Unforgettable Mediterranean Summer.” This initiative seeks to whisk you away to sun-kissed coastal locales with every cup of coffee you brew. As someone who appreciates travel and all its nuances, the thought of being transported to vibrant Mediterranean vistas through my coffee is nothing short of exhilarating.

Inspiration Behind Mandarin Orange

 This specific hue was selected not merely for its boldness but for its capacity to evoke feelings of warmth, fun, and a sense of spontaneous adventure. In my opinion, this vibrant shade of orange serves as an inviting reminder of sun-ripened fruits that are often found in Mediterranean markets, embodying the vibrant energy of summer - a romantic notion that is far more satisfying to envision than the hot and sweaty afternoons we get here.

Pantone’s choice of Mandarin Orange truly resonates with me, as it instills a sense of joy and vitality in the kitchen. It’s not just about making coffee; it’s about the emotional connection you create with your surroundings. This color has the power to transform your kitchen into a cheerful space, where the act of brewing coffee becomes a delightful, summer-inspired celebration.

The limited edition nature of the Vertuo Pop+ Pantone Mandarin Orange machine also adds a layer of exclusivity that any coffee lover would appreciate. In an era of mass production, it’s refreshing to see a product that allows one to express their unique taste in both coffee and aesthetics.

Any coffee aficionado will tell you that the experience of unboxing a new coffee maker can be just as exciting as the brewing process that follows. Now being rather indifferent about my coffee machines in the past, I was not expecting to gush over the Vertuo Pop x Pantone Mandarin Orange, yet gush I did. Unboxing the coffee machine was like unveiling a treasure. I was buzzing with anticipation (and that’s even before I’ve had any caffeine in my system) as I opened the box containing the Nespresso Vertuo x Pantone Mandarin Orange Bundle. The packaging instantly captured my attention, reminiscent of a tropical escape. It was understated and tasteful, with the iconic Pantone swatch symbol on the side of the box wrapped around in the sensual, warm, terracotta shade. I appreciated the use of strong design elements and colour that set the stage for the summer coffee adventure that awaited me.

Machine Design and Build Quality of the Vertuo Pop x Pantone Mandarin Orange

There’s something incredibly appealing about the design of the Nespresso Vertuo Pop x Pantone Mandarin Orange machine that captured my attention immediately. While the machine is the smallest in the Vertuo line, it proves that size doesn’t matter when it comes to functionality and style. I was impressed with the high-quality materials and sturdy build, which ensures that this bright machine not only looks good but also stands the test of time. The vibrant Mandarin Orange colour was more striking in person than it appeared online, making it a lively statement piece on my countertop.

As I examined the design elements, I appreciated how Nespresso managed to create a modern aesthetic while also embracing its legacy in coffee making. There’s only one button on the lid of the machine, and all you have to do is pop a capsule in before lowering the lid and turning the locking bar left to get it started. The sleek lines and curves give the machine a more contemporary feel, making it a perfect fit for a range of kitchen styles. Whether you’re in a minimalist space or a more traditional setting, this coffee maker is a showstopper that adds a splash of color without feeling out of place. The innovative design also optimised the layout, ensuring that the water reservoir and capsule compartment are easily accessible without being overly intrusive. This thoughtful approach alleviates any concerns I had about usability in smaller kitchen or lounge spaces.

A notable feature of the Nespresso Vertuo Pop machine is its ability to brew four different cup sizes, providing ultimate flexibility for all your coffee needs. This means you can easily switch from a short espresso to a full mug without any hassle, catering to those moments when a quick caffeine fix is needed or when I want to savour a larger cup leisurely. While the factory setting allows the Vertuo Pop to prepare coffee in 40, 80, 150 and 230ml volumes, I learnt that you can also customise it to your preferred volume. You can programme each capsule type to be prepared in your desired volume so it automatically prepares your coffee just the way you prefer it. The build quality, functional design, and stunning aesthetics come together seamlessly to create an excellent coffee maker that stands out in both performance and looks.

Included Accessories when you buy the Vertuo Pop

While the Vertuo Pop itself comes with the main unit, an external water tank (600ml), a capsule reservoir to hold the used capsules and a cup holder, the Nespresso Vertuo Pop x Mandarin Orange collection does offer up some rather enticing add-ons, such as the Aeroccino3 milk frother, a 380ml mug, 400ml Nomad travel mug as well as a 540ml Iced Coffee Tumbler, all accented with the Mandarin orange shade. The entire range really demonstrates how Nespresso doesn’t just want to be known as a coffee pod brand, it’s offering an entire lifestyle for the discerning homeowner who is constantly on the go.

Nespresso Vertuo Technology

One of the biggest gripes that Nespresso regulars have about the Vertuo machine comes from the fact that it uses a new proprietary capsule instead of the classic pods. That means having to get a new machine if you want to enjoy the cool new flavours available in the Vertuo range. Thankfully, I didn’t have to contend with that decision as this machine is a replacement for my previous one, which had prepared too many servings of rushed morning brews. But if you are one of those who still has a functioning coffee machine that uses the classic Nespresso pods, there’s good reason to make the switch because unlike the classic machines that were designed to brew the perfect espresso, the Vertuo system uses a unique extraction method combining coffee infusion with centrifugal force to prepare larger cups of coffee. With its revolutionary technology, this machine not only brews coffee but transforms the overall experience you have with your daily brew. As I explored the modern features embedded within this sleek coffee maker, I was thrilled to discover how it stands apart from its original Nespresso counterparts.

What exactly is Nespresso Vertuo’s Centrifusion Technique?

Unlike traditional Nespresso machines that utilise pressure to extract coffee, the Vertuo system spins the capsule at impressive speeds of up to 7,000 rpm. This unique approach uses centrifugal force to inject hot water into the coffee grounds, crucially allowing coffee to brew in a manner that ensures maximum flavor extraction. The result is a coffee experience that genuinely captures the rich, robust flavors I crave while producing a delectably creamy crema on top—a hallmark of quality coffee.

Moreover, Vertuo machines provide a level of efficiency that is hard to beat. Once the brewing process is complete, the capsules continue spinning at high speeds, effectively driving out any remaining water and leaving behind dry coffee grounds. This means that you don’t have to worry about messy cleanup or dealing with soggy pods, making my morning routine smoother and more enjoyable. This simple yet ingenious feature makes a huge difference in a morning routine, allowing me to enjoy exceptional convenience without the fuss.

Barcode Scanning System in the Vertuo Capsules

Original Nespresso machines focused primarily on the quality of the brew, but Vertuo adds a whole new layer of customisation through its barcode scanning technology. Each Vertuo capsule is equipped with a unique barcode that the machine reads and interprets when inserted. This innovative feature takes the guesswork out of coffee brewing—each time you pop in a capsule, the machine instantly adjusts its parameters based on the specific blend. It’s impressive how each barcode can dictate adjustments in the cup size, temperature, rotational speed, flow rate, and water contact time.

Scanning this barcode is not just a nifty gimmick; it is the brain behind the precision and quality of your brew. Each coffee blend is treated uniquely, ensuring that you enjoy the distinct notes and flavors locked inside the capsule tailored as the creator intended. The precision of this system centralises the importance of science in coffee-making, liberating you from the mundane and elevating your coffee routine to an art form.

Pantone Mandarin Orange Aesthetics

Now the Vertuo Pop does come in other colourways, from the basic black to soft, pastel shades of blue, red and mint. Yet there’s just something enchanting about the Mandarin Orange, that adds that special pizzazz to brighten up the room. This vibrant hue – strikingly bold and invigorating – is undoubtedly a showstopper on any kitchen counter. The moment I set it next to my appliances, I could see how it transformed the space, breathing new life and energy into my room decor. I believe that a coffee machine should not just function well but also add to the overall ambiance of your kitchen, and this machine does just that.  I found that this colour doesn’t merely blend into the background; it demands attention and sparks joy in your everyday coffee ritual. In a world where many kitchens tend to stick with neutral tones, the Nespresso Vertuo pops with a playful spirit, offering a delightful contrast that can truly enhance your cooking and entertaining experience. The earthy tone also means it can adapt to any interior effortlessly, whether as a statement piece in a minimalist all-white kitchen, or as a unique complement in a lounge draped in bronze and gray tones like mine. It pairs especially well with wood textures as well, so you don’t have to worry about it sticking out like a sore thumb on a wooden table.

The Vertuo Pop x Pantone Mandarin Orange as a Daily Tool

I hate to sound dramatic, but this coffee maker has certainly changed my daily routine. For one, it has become something I actually will want to get out of bed for in the mornings, and because of it I’ve also begun to appreciate a good cup of iced coffee after my dinner in the evenings (thankfully, caffeine doesn’t keep me up at night). It has even changed the way I style my morning nook in the lounge area, thanks to the Mandarin Orange hue. I dressed up the area with some poppy blooms to match the hue, along with pops of colour from the other appliances in the space.

Getting the machine to work out of the box is relatively easy, all it needs is a first rinse (as with all new coffee machines) and topping up the water tank before it’s good to go. The Vertuo Pop takes 30 seconds to heat up, before proceeding to brew your coffee. And once it’s done, the clever design automatically discards the used capsule into the used capsule reservoir as you unlock and lift the lid. One thing to note, which might be a concern for some, is the loudness of the machine during operation. Owing to the centrifusion technology, the machine can get a tad loud as the capsule is spun. This sounds similar (although much less deafening) to a washing machine, but over time it becomes manageable and in my case, I don’t even notice it anymore since it’s not loud enough to drown out a conversation or stop me from listening to the television.

Is the Vertuo Pop x Mandarin Orange for you?

Gushing aside, there are some cons to the Vertuo Pop. For one, the 600ml water tank may be rather limiting for large family units. It could mean having to top up the water tank constantly if you are planning to make several cups of coffee at one go. However, it’s the ideal amount for small households or for personal use.

The prices of the capsules could also be an issue for heavy drinkers, as the cost of Vertuo capsules range from 93 cents to $1.45, versus the classic capsules, which largely costs around 80 cents. According to Nespresso, that’s because each Vertuo capsule contains more coffee grounds, and that isn’t necessarily a bad thing if you are looking for a more robust brew.

The Vertuo Pop can only make one coffee at a time, which might be inconvenient for households with multiple coffee drinkers. Without the bundle, the Aeroccino3 milk frother is sold separately, so if you enjoy milk-based drinks, that’s an additional expense to factor in.

The machine’s simplicity might be a drawback for some as well If you prefer more control over your brewing process, the one-touch button might feel limiting.

So who is the Vertuo Pop and its Pantone collab version for? I’d recommend the Vertuo Pop for coffee lovers who value convenience and speed. It’s perfect for those new to coffee machines, thanks to its user-friendly design. If you’re short on kitchen space or looking for an affordable entry into the world of Nespresso that can also serve as a chic accent to your kitchen, this machine is an excellent choice. However, if you’re particular about controlling every aspect of your brew or if easy recycling is a top priority, you might want to explore other options.

The limited edition Nespresso Vertuo Pop x Pantone Mandarin Orange coffee maker is available from Nespresso boutiques, the Nespresso online store and Amazon. The bundle, inclusive of the machine and the Aeroccino3 milk frother retails for $329.

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