By Shivaun Hales

Nespresso gave retailers the chance to get up-close with its new Maestria range at a trade launch at Sydney’s  exclusive Ivy Penthouse last night, where Nespresso commercial manager John Ciaglia described the Gran Maestria and Maestria machines as the “ultimate in luxury”.

Speaking at the event last night, Ciaglia said Maestria is entering the market following the successful launch of Nespresso’s Pixie and Latissima+ last year.

Ciaglia said the Spanish name chosen for the range, ‘Maestria’ means mastery and skill.

“It revokes expertise, professionalism and status. Three qualities which are clearly demonstrated in the machines,” he said.

The Maestria and Gran Maestria feature coffee dials to control the pour, and the Maestria comes with a steam wand. Both features are new additions to Nespresso machines.

“The Maestria is a machine that is very hands on, it comes with the unique feature of the steam wand which also allows for the barista experience,” explained Ciaglia.

“It’s a machine that will reveal the barista in you.”

Nespresso set-up a coffee bar at the event, complete with baristas showcasing the machines. The smaller Maestria machine is equipped with a 1.4 litre water tank, a large used capsule container and a pivoting cup stand to suit different sized cups.

The Gran Maestria does not come with a steam wand, instead using the newest Aeroccino milk frother capable of producing four variations of milk froth.

“The Gran Maestria has a lot more status and has a real presence about it,” commented Ciaglia.

“It’s best in class in convenience and the ultimate in luxury.”

See Tuesday’s Portable Appliance edition for more details of the Nespresso launch, including who Nespresso is targeting with the range and how retailers will be supported over the Mother’s Day sales period.