The Wolf coffee maker is a coffee machine that has received a lot of fanfare. We’ve heard the buzz and seen people raving about this coffee maker, so we had to bite the bullet and pick one up to test and review.
In this in depth review, we’ll run through the build quality and features, the coffee brewing process, and cleaning and maintenance. Most importantly, we’ll reveal whether or not the Wolf Gourmet coffee maker is worth splurging on.
Summary: Wolf Coffee Maker
- Enhances flavor complexity with adjustable brew strength and AccuBrew technology.
- Sleek stainless steel construction adds a touch of industrial-chic flair to any kitchen.
- Innovative AccuBrew technology ensures a perfect brew by guiding the ideal coffee-to-water ratio.
- High-quality thermal carafe keeps coffee hot for 2-3 hours without compromising flavor.
- Makes really good coffee regardless of the roast profile.
Wolf Gourmet has become synonymous with luxurious, stainless steel kitchen gadgets. The Wolf Gourmet programmable coffee maker fits right into this trend.
Priced at $539.49, this is among the priciest drip coffee makers we’ve ever tested. It is more expensive than many SCA certified brewers we’ve previously reviewed including the Moccamaster, the Breville Precision Brewer and the Oxo Brew.
Considering the market is flooded with coffee makers at a fraction of the cost, we were skeptical that the higher price could ever be justified.
When the package arrived and we started unboxing, the Wolf coffee machine left a strong first impression. With its sleek stainless steel construction, large knobs, and LCD screen, it exudes an industrial-chic flair. It’s something you’d expect to find in a trendy café rather than a home kitchen countertop or coffee station.
We believe that this industrial look is precisely what Wolf was targeting. But the real gems of the Wolf coffee maker are hidden beneath its surface.
Wolf Coffee Maker Features
From the user-friendly interface to adjustable brew strength, here’s a run down of the many features of the Wolf coffee maker.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Wolf Gourmet |
| Model | WGCM100S |
| Dimensions | 14.4 x 9.1 x 10.8 in / 36.6 x 23.1 x 27.4 cm |
| Weight | 13.6 lbs / 6.2 kgs |
| Power | 1500W |
| Color Options | Silver / Red knobs |
| Water Tank | Removable |
| Water Tank Capacity | 50.7 fl oz / 1.5 l |
| Integrated Grinder | No |
| Milk Frother | No |
| Warranty | 5 years |
| Price | Price not available |
| Website | See on Amazon |
Design and Build
The Wolf Gourmet coffee maker may appear compact at first glance, but it’s surprisingly large. It occupies a fair amount of counter space, though it is not heavy, weighing in at a relatively light 13 pounds (5.8 kilograms).
So if you’re looking for a coffee maker to fit into a small space, you might need to search elsewhere.
User Interface
As futuristic as it appears, the Wolf coffee maker embraces analog controls. The large knobs on the front are a nostalgic touch. The machine comes with stainless steel silver knobs as default, with red knobs a slightly more expensive upgraded.
On the panel, there are clear labels next to each control. These labels enhance the intuitive nature of the interface. In our view, it’s a significant improvement over the cryptic symbols some drip machines employ.
The top knob selects the mode: Clean, Manual, or AccuBrew. Clean is for maintenance, Manual gives you full control of your brew parameters, and AccuBrew is a unique setting we’ll explore later.
Remember, the top knob also sets brew strength, while the bottom knob determines the number of cups. These details appear on the LCD screen, so you’re always aware of the machine’s status.
Adjustable Brew Strength
Like most drip coffee makers, the Wolf offers adjustable brew strength, ranging from mild to bold. You’ll use the top knob to switch between these settings, displayed on the LCD screen.
We were hoping for more brew strength options at this price point. While most users will likely find a preferred setting, those seeking extensive experimentation might feel limited.
AccuBrew Technology
The AccuBrew technology was the standout feature of the Wolf Gourmet coffee machine. It’s rare in drip coffee makers and sets the Wolf apart from its competitors.
After setting the brew strength and number of cups, the coffee maker takes over. Using the built-in scale, it guides you in adding the perfect amount of ground coffee to the filter. The display alerts you if you’ve added too much or too little.
The goal here is to achieve the ideal coffee-to-water ratio to get the most from your beans. While this feature is the highlight of the Wolf coffee maker, it may require some time to master. We had to consult the user manual a few times, but after some experimenting and tweaking, the quality of the coffee we brewed was superb.
Timer
Timers are common in drip coffee makers, but the Wolf’s timer deserves a quick mention. Not only can you schedule your brew, but you can also track how long it has been since your last one.
This visual stopwatch might be useful in a shared environment, saving you from tasting stale coffee.
Thermal Carafe
The Wolf’s stainless steel thermal carafe holds 10 cups and is designed to keep your coffee hot, thanks to its double-wall construction.
We always favor a thermal carafe over a glass one with a keep-warm function. A hot plate does keep coffee warm, but it’s always at the expense of flavor, a variable we don’t like to compromise on.
In our testing, the carafe kept coffee hot for between 2 and 3 hours. After the first hour, there is definitely a noticeable difference in the temperature, but it still tastes good. After the 90 minute mark, it’s still drinkable, but it’s warm, not hot.
Brew Cycle
In our testing, the Wolf Gourmet coffee maker brewed ten cups of coffee in under seven minutes, The water temperature was extremely consistent, as was th evenness of the water distribution.
These subtle features may seem insignificant, but they significantly impacted the coffee’s taste. We found the Wolf had better extraction and flavor than the majority of coffee makers we’ve tested.
Brew Basket
We liked the front-loading brew basket that smoothly slides out when adding coffee grounds. It’s a classy touch and a sign of thoughtful design.
You’ll need to use #4 paper filters with this coffee maker. While some might expect a permanent filter, we assure you that an unbleached paper filter will result in a cleaner, more complex flavor.
Water Reservoir
The removable water reservoir holds 50 ounces (1.5 liters), meaning fewer trips to the sink. The sturdy handle ensures easy removal without the risk of a kitchen flood.
Warranty
Most coffee makers we review carry one or two-year limited warranties. The Wolf Gourmet’s five-year limited warranty was a pleasant surprise.
Given the lofty price tag, the extra protection is welcome. It’s refreshing to see a manufacturer truly backing its product.
Wolf Coffee Maker Cleaning
Cleaning and maintenance are relatively straightforward. Regular rinsing of the brew basket and water reservoir, changing the water filter every 30 brew cycles, and descaling after 300 brew cycles will keep your machine in top shape.
We recommend washing the carafe by hand and avoiding the dishwasher.
The Taste Test
To explore the true capabilities of the Wolf Gourmet Coffee Maker, we embarked on a comprehensive taste test. We selected a variety of coffee roasts and blends, ranging from light and floral to dark and robust.
The Wolf Gourmet Coffee Maker consistently brewed great coffee every time. The flavors were rich and pronounced, with a perfect balance that allowed the individual tasting notes to shine through.
Whether it was the clarity of a bright, fruity Ethiopian light roast or the deep, chocolatey notes of a Colombian blend, the Wolf Gourmet managed to capture the essence of each coffee.
The tasting experience was enhanced by the machine’s ability to maintain the right temperature and extraction time, resulting in a cup that was neither too bitter nor too weak.
But the high price tag still looms above it’s head as it is nearly twice the price of comparable coffee makers. Is the coffee it makes twice as good as the Breville Precision Brewer or the Technivorm Moccamaster?
While the Wolf Gourmet certainly stands out in terms of flavor complexity and consistency, it’s hard to definitively say that it’s twice as good as its competitors.
Both the Breville brewer and the Moccamaster are superb coffee makers and they deliver excellent coffee. While we loved the coffee made using the Wolf, we didn’t find it to be head and shoulders above our other brewers.
Verdict: Wolf Coffee Maker Review
The Wolf coffee maker is undoubtedly a significant investment. After using it for a few months, we can definitively say that it’s a well-crafted machine with thoughtful design and appealing features.
It makes fantastic coffee. It’s chockful of features and it’s thoughtfully constructed for ease-of-use and maintenance. If you’re looking for a simple, no-frills coffee maker, there are better options available.
But if you’re in search of a coffee maker that offers more control, consistency, and a touch of luxury, the Wolf Gourmet Programmable Coffee Maker might just be the gem you’re looking for.
Coffee expert and industry insider, I’ve dedicated years to mastering the art and science of coffee making. From scrutinizing particle fineness to evaluating burr shapes, I delve into the minutiae that elevate coffee from good to exceptional. Whether it’s a complex pour-over or a robust espresso, my insights cater to those who don’t just drink coffee, but experience it.
