Since the heat deflector plate prevents direct searing and grill marks, the food crisps up like it would when roasted inside a high-temperature oven. The grill rolled easily on four wheels without rattling or shaking, leading us to believe the construction is solid and secure enough to last the test of time. We loved the WiFIRE app functionality, which made it easy to adjust probe and grill temperatures while also keeping an eye on the percentage of pellets left in the hopper. It seemed outdated compared to some of the grills in the test group, and it was hard to read after sitting out in the sun for hours. Everything about the Cuisinart Clermont Pellet Grill & Smoker is well designed, right down to the paper towel holder on the work surface and three tool hooks for easy storage. A 40-pound hopper means you won’t have to worry about adding more pellets during a long smoke either.
Cuisinart has really taken a step forward in the pellet smoker industry with the Clermont. The first things that stand out about the Clermont, are its size and appearance, so for me, it was love at first sight. I mean, I can’t remember ever seeing a such a tall pellet smoker before, and the design of this high-end unit is stunning as well. Going ‘low and slow’ and high-temperature grilling are two very different things.
A thermostat and an onboard computer control the grill’s auger, fan, and ignition system. It would be better with more vertical height since you have to remove cooking grates cuisinart griddler elite to smoke large items. However, where this grill falls down is in the quality. At $600USD, this is an inexpensive pellet grill, but one that will frustrate you down the line.
Right now, if you open the pellet dump, you have to hold the bucket up or they disperse everywhere. After a bit, pounds of pellets can get heavy fast. It’ll take about 10 minutes to go through the proper shutdown. If you like to monitor your grill or meat temps from your phone, just download the Cuisinart Easy Connect™ BBQ App on the App Store or Google Play. Instead of a lid that opens up, the dual doors pull open like a cabinet. They are 17″ tall and 15.25″ wide with 13.5″ x 10″ windows and long sturdy handles.
You can also buy more racks, if you really want to load the grill up. Like most pellet grills, the Clermont comes in a lot of parts and pieces and requires assembly. You only need a screwdriver and wrench, which are included with the hardware. Grilling involves cooking directly over a fire source hot and fast. Pellet grill manufacturers have slowly been adding this feature to their products to provide the versatility of both cooking methods. Just like an oven, you can use it to bake, roast and braise, but because it’s a pellet grill, you can also use it to smoke, barbecue and even grill.
Paint is not warranted and will require touch up. RUST is not considered a manufacturing or materials defect. If storing the grill outdoors, close the wood pellet lid and cover the grill with a cover for protection from the weather.