Decaffeinated specialty coffee
Myth or real alternative?
For many, the word “decaf” conjures up images of bland, flat, or even useless coffee. However, in the world of specialty coffee, things have changed. Today, some decaf coffees rival the best traditional coffees in quality. If you thought decaf meant compromise, it might be time to reconsider.
Why decaffeinate coffee?
Caffeine is a naturally occurring substance in coffee beans. Some consumers wish to limit or avoid it for health reasons, sleep, or simply preference. Decaffeinated coffee allows you to continue enjoying the taste of coffee , without the stimulating effects.
A coffee is considered decaffeinated when it contains less than 0.1% caffeine , which represents a reduction of approximately 97% to 99.9% of the original content.
How is coffee decaffeinated?
There are several methods for removing caffeine. The most common in specialty coffee are gentle and respectful of the bean , to preserve its aromas:
1. The water process (Swiss Water Process)
Without chemical solvents, this method uses only water, time, and activated carbon. It is 100% natural and highly prized in specialty coffee.
2. The CO₂ (carbon dioxide) process
Uses pressurized CO₂ to extract caffeine. Highly efficient, it is often used for high-quality coffees.
3. The Sugarcane Process (EA Process)
Popular in Colombia, it uses a natural byproduct of sugarcane to remove caffeine. This method is particularly appreciated for its ability to preserve the fruity and sweet aromas of coffee.
Other, older processes, based on chemical solvents, are now rarely used in specialty coffees.
Taste: still lagging behind?
This is a persistent misconception. While decaffeination can certainly attenuate certain aromas, especially the most volatile ones. But with a well-selected coffee and a gentle process, the aromas remain present and balanced .
A good decaffeinated coffee can offer notes of caramel, hazelnut, ripe fruit, or even floral notes, depending on its origin and roast. Many coffee lovers can't even tell the difference in a blind tasting.
Why choose a specialty decaffeinated coffee?
- For caffeine-free enjoyment : You can enjoy a good coffee at any time.
- To avoid processed products : natural methods respect the integrity of the grain.
- To give an underestimated category a chance : decaffeinated coffee is often the surprise of a well-executed tasting.
It's also a great option for pregnant women, people sensitive to caffeine, or simply evening coffee lovers.
How to prepare it properly?
As with any good coffee, freshness is essential. Choose freshly roasted decaffeinated coffee beans and adjust the grind to suit your brewing method (plunger, V60, espresso, etc.). Decaf coffee is prepared just like any other coffee—with the same care and attention to detail.
Next up: cupping .
