Philips launched their new Senso Latte Select Coffee Machine at this year’s IFA, which was lucky as after a few hours of wandering from stand to stand, I was feeling a bit drowsy. This latest addition to the already popular Senso family features an integrated, removable fresh milk container, which doesn’t sound anywhere near as high-tech as components for their TV range. The fresh milk container is a bit of an innovation in the upmarket coffee world though, as it automatically adds frothed milk to your coffee without you having to  brave a steamer and make a milky mess all over your counter.
brave a steamer and make a milky mess all over your counter.
On first appearance, the system is even more convenient than any of its predecessors and still creates a very nice tasting coffee. The new model features an extra-large water reservoir that holds enough water to make up to 8 cups of coffee without refilling, which will keep you awake until mid-afternoon.
The improved adjustable cup tray accommodates a wide range of cup sizes, from Cappuccino cups to tall Latte Macchiato glasses. Unfortunately you will have trouble trying to fit your yard glass under there.
The new Senso Latte Select furthermore uses a dual heating system that ensures milk and coffee are ready at the same time. Try getting a 16-year-old Starbucks barista to be that precise.
What I really liked about the Senso Latte Select is that it addressed an issue that is the bane of every coffee machine owner’s life. No it doesn’t provide a new recipe for Rich Tea biscuits, but instead features a self-cleaning button. This combined with dishwasher-safe milk container and integrated milk frother makes it easy to remove that lovely milk residue that usually cakes on like super glue. As an added safety feature, there is an automatic shut-off which switches off the machine after 30 minutes.
