Bodum Santos Vacuum Coffee Maker

I have had this pot for over a year, and it is by far the best coffee maker I have had, ever. Once you get the method down and understand how to get a good vacuum in the bottom pot, you will have perfect coffee every time. I definitely recommend it. I have read other reviews regarding the pot's glass, that it is thin and easily breakable, but that has not been my experience. I put the top part of the maker in my dishwasher, and it is still intact, after a year. I wash the bottom part by hand, clutz that I am, and it is still intact; note, though, that I am very careful to dry the outside of the pot before putting it on the burner, but other than that, it seems a simple and very interesting coffee maker!

FYI - Holds 34 ounces of water. This method of preparation is worth the extra brewing time!

I love the coffee I can make with this brewer! However, the Bodum glass is very thin and easily broken. Mine cracked on it's own! It is possible that I dinged the glass while washing it but, if I did it wasn't obvious or visible because I checked it when washing. However, while it was steeping the coffee I heard a "snick" sound and then a hissing. When I went over to check it there was a long crack about 2" long around the base and the vacuum was pulling air in. Even if I did something to make that happen I shouldn't have to be as careful as I was with it. They need to use thicker glass. Otherwise it's a fantastic way to make coffee and if I can't find a better unit I will buy another Bodum simply because I'm spoiled and want my awesome coffee back.

It is a fun toy to experiment with, but you might as well use a French Press which is way simpler and easier to deal with. I use a can of sterno to heat it because it enhances the chemistry set feel to the project. Getting the grind consistency and the little finicky tricks to brewing the proper strength takes a few trys, but you will have some fun.

I've owned this coffee maker for about 3 years now. It makes very good, tasty coffee. I handle it gingerly whenever I wash it because the parts are not available separately. If you break a piece, you have to buy a whole new unit. I highly recommend the Bodum Santos for good coffee!