Full review
Longer notes from the same comments we summarized above.
What we learned from owners
Convenience is a major highlight, allowing quick cocktails without measuring or mixing. Owners appreciate the ability to enjoy variety at home, especially for casual use or entertaining, without wasting leftover mixers. Many users find the drinks good, with some enjoying their machine constantly. The machine features actual glass bottles for spirits, which some consider a nice quality touch compared to alternatives. It also allows for strength selection for cocktails and can make mocktails by dispensing just water with the flavor pod.
Common problems reported
A recurring concern is initial setup and water dispensing issues. Several owners reported their new Duet machines wouldn't pull water or dispensed only small amounts of liquid, sometimes even after receiving a replacement unit. One user found success by reseating the water reservoir multiple times to get it working. Pod expense is a significant drawback for many, with some stating it's cheaper to drink at a bar when considering capsule costs. Finding certain pods can also be difficult. Some owners were underwhelmed by the taste of certain drinks and found the drink portions to be small, often described as martini glass size. The Duet's two-bottle liquor capacity is a limitation, meaning it can't make multi-liquor cocktails like a Long Island, and some users wish for more spirit options. Other minor issues mentioned include the machine being loud and some reporting touch screen issues.
Where opinions differ
While many appreciate the convenience and quality of the drinks, a notable number of users found the taste underwhelming or the drink sizes too small. The cost of pods is a polarizing topic; some accept it for the convenience, while others find it prohibitive. The build quality of the Duet was implicitly compared unfavorably to sturdier alternatives by one owner, though direct complaints about its own construction were not widespread.
Should you buy it?
The Bartesian Duet Cocktail machine is recommended for those who prioritize convenience and enjoy a variety of cocktails at home without the fuss of traditional mixing. It's particularly well-suited for entertaining or infrequent use where buying full bottles of mixers would lead to waste. However, potential buyers should be aware of the ongoing cost of pods and the possibility of initial water flow issues that might require some troubleshooting. If you need a machine that handles many different liquors simultaneously or prefer larger drink servings, you might want to consider larger Bartesian models or alternatives.
