The Rancilio Rocky is a game-changer for coffee enthusiasts who face the perpetual challenge of achieving a perfect grind. Renowned for its robust build and reliable performance, this grinder promises to elevate your espresso experience.
This heavy-duty grinder transforms coffee beans into a uniform grind in no time, making it a favorite among coffee aficionados who value consistency and quality. The Rocky’s solid metal construction not only gives it a sleek, industrial look but also ensures durability and stability. Inside, a powerful motor and commercial-grade 50mm flat-tempered steel burrs work tirelessly to provide an even grind, essential for a great espresso.
The Rancilio Rocky is especially suited for espresso, irrespective of whether you’re using a pressurized portafilter. Its motor, operating at 166 watts, drives the burrs at 1725 RPM, ensuring a quiet yet powerful grind. Unlike many home grinders that use conical burrs, the Rocky’s flat steel burrs are designed for precision and durability, allowing the grinder to handle various brewing methods from French press to cold brew.
While the Rocky excels in many areas, its usability could be improved. Adjusting the grind size involves holding down multiple buttons and turning the hopper, which can be cumbersome. Additionally, the grinder doesn’t come with a dosing option but features a slot to grind directly into the portafilter holder, minimizing mess and making the process slightly easier.
The Rocky offers a wide range of grind settings, from coarse to extra-fine, allowing users to tailor their grind to their preferred brewing method. With 55 settings, you can easily switch between French press, pour-over, and espresso, ensuring consistent particle size each time. However, the grinder does have a known issue with oily beans, requiring extra care during cleaning to maintain performance.
With a hopper capacity of 10.5 oz, the Rocky outperforms other models like the Baratza Virtuoso +. Yet, for the freshest brew, it’s advisable to avoid storing beans in the hopper for extended periods. Its doserless design offers flexibility, but for those who prefer a different setup, Rancilio also offers a doser model called the Rocky SS.
Weighing in at 15.14 pounds, the Rocky isn’t the most portable option, but its compact dimensions (4.7 x 9.8 x 13.8 inches) make it a suitable fit for most kitchen counters. Its aesthetic appeal, with a stainless steel casing and black front panel, adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen. But remember, this grinder isn’t ideal for frequent travelers.
Cleaning the Rocky is straightforward, thanks to its design that allows for grinding directly into the portafilter. Minimal cleaning is required for heavy home use, and since each unit is factory-tested, you might find traces of ground coffee upon arrival. But it’s ready to use from day one, delivering excellent results for various brewing methods.
Durability is another strong suit of the Rocky. Its commercial-grade motor and burrs, combined with a sturdy stainless steel frame, promise longevity. Though it comes with a premium price tag, its long-term reliability and minimal maintenance needs make it a worthwhile investment for serious coffee lovers. While it may not suffice for a bustling coffee shop, it’s perfect for offices, coworking spaces, and home use.
Despite its high cost, the Rancilio Rocky offers exceptional grind consistency, making it an excellent choice for home baristas and coffee pros alike. If you’re looking to enhance your coffee game, this grinder’s ability to fine-tune grind settings without the need for a pressurized basket is invaluable. But if budget constraints are a concern, there are other models to consider.
The Rancilio Rocky isn’t just a grinder; it’s an investment in quality coffee. With its superior durability, impressive grinding capabilities, and sleek design, it stands out as a top choice for coffee enthusiasts. While it has its quirks, the pros far outweigh the cons for those serious about their espresso. If it fits your needs and budget, the Rocky is a grinder that won’t disappoint.