Keurig’s Alta system uses compostable AltaRounds instead of conventional plastic K-Cups and brews espresso-style drinks at up to 10 bar of pressure. The machine’s touchscreen recommends beverages based on the pod in use, while an integrated steam wand helps prepare milk drinks such as lattes, cappuccinos, flat whites, and cortados. In testing, the system produced flavorful coffee and silky milk foam, although its pods currently arrive in foil-based packaging.
The machine recommends different types of drinks, and used AltaRounds collect in a bin that can be emptied into home compost or thrown in the garbage. The packs currently ship in foil-based packaging, but Keurig plans to move to paper-based packaging that can be recycled in stores.
This plastic-free coffee-delivery system is a first for Keurig and is appealing compared with other pod-based options. I have tested machines such as the Bruvi BV-01, which uses biodegradable pods. Nespresso pods are technically recyclable, but many municipalities require users to mail them to Nespresso, which is not always convenient. Keurig has a poor reputation for the waste generated by K-Cups; these small AltaRounds are designed to offer a different approach.
The drinks I tried were excellent. The Alta uses up to 10 bar of pressure to extract espresso rather than relying on concentrated coffee labeled “espresso,” as some pod machines do. The resulting coffee had crema and a rich oil content, giving it a flavor and viscosity not usually associated with pod brewers.
I generally do not like flavored coffee, but even the caramel blend was delicious, with a sweet aroma and a pleasant flavor that was not overpowering. Friends who took a look—and a taste—were surprised by the results. My initial doubts quickly gave way to enthusiasm.
Photo: Lauryn Strump
Be your own barista
The Alta brewer has a touchscreen interface that suggests drinks based on the AltaRound being used. Users can save drinks to their favorites for quick access, and the menu is easy to navigate, even early in the morning. Options include flat whites, lattes, cappuccinos, cortados, and Americanos, with controls for size, temperature, and intensity.
The Alta also has a built-in steam wand with its own container and magnetic whisk. When users select a drink that requires frothed milk, the machine provides step-by-step instructions, including how much milk to add. A measuring function inside the container adjusts the process for dairy, oat, almond, or soy milk. Users can also choose wetter or drier foam, as well as cool or cold foam.
The milk toppings were rich and silky, adding a polished finish to standard coffee drinks. The differences between beverages were noticeable: lattes were creamy and smooth, while cortados were light and fluffy, with whipped cream on top.
The wand can also be operated manually for more control. Once the milk is ready, it automatically discharges into a separate drip tray. The container only needs to be wiped and rinsed, while magnetic storage keeps it attached to the machine.
The integrated system makes milk drinks straightforward: brew the coffee, froth the milk, combine the ingredients, and serve. Flavored syrups can be added for more elaborate drinks, and the automated steaming leaves room to practice latte art without having to steam the milk manually.
Source: www.wired.com
