9Barista
Early in 2022, I was introduced to a revolutionary espresso maker unlike any before it: the 9Barista. Comparable in size to a classic Italian 4-6 cup 'Bialetti' Moka Express stovetop, this compact device offers an innovative approach to espresso brewing.
The 9Barista was developed by William Playford, who is not only the inventor and founder of the company but also holds a Ph.D. in jet engine thermodynamics. Based in Cambridge, UK, Playford's deep engineering expertise is evident in the design and functionality of the 9Barista.
What drew me instantly to the 9Barista was the meticulous engineering and elegant design. These aspects resonate with my own appreciation for high-quality, thoughtfully engineered products. The 9Barista's craftsmanship reminds me of another UK-based engineering company, Kontax Stirling Engines, of which I own a small collection. . . But, I digress.
My decision to purchase the 9Barista came easily; I wanted to enjoy quality espresso, particularly on weekends at the South Coast. On 1 May 2022, I placed my order, and thanks to swift shipping, the machine arrived in Australia by 9 May 2022.
Achieving optimal extractions with the 9Barista requires attention to several variables, including grind fineness, dose, and heat settings. With practice, these nuances become second nature, and the results are exceptional. After more than three and a half years of owning the unit, the 9Barista has become an invaluable tool for sampling new coffees and, more recently, my own roasts.
I have found that the 9Barista consistently delivers a sweet flavour profile, which I attribute to its gentle pressure profile during extraction.
The 9Barista's unique brewing method is rooted in its divided boiler design. The high-pressure boiler delivers water at 9 Bar, which is then routed through a secondary heat exchanger to cool it to around 100°C. A further heatsinking process, provided by the unit's finned section, brings the temperature down to approximately 93°C, the optimal temperature for espresso extraction.
Over time, I have upgraded my setup with the 'naked' portafilter, 53mm IMS basket, a new metal shower screen replacing the previous silicone version, and a metal chimney.
In 2025, 9Barista announced the release of the Mk.2, featuring fully machined castings and additional improvements.
My espresso workflow is further enhanced by pairing the 9Barista with the Nanofoamer Lithium for milk-based coffees and two hand grinders: the Commandante C40 and the 1Zpresso K-Max.
To find out more details on the 9Barista, head on over to the 9Barista Website. An online store is available to purchase the unit, accessories and spare parts.
- Flavio Spedalieri -
Written: 29 September 2025
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