Decaf - Colombia Huila EA

REGION: Huila
PRODUCER: Various smallholders
PROCESS: Washed; sugarcane E.A.
VARIETY: Various
ELEVATION: 1500-2000M
TASTING NOTES: Citrus, cocoa powder, plum

This Colombian decaf employs the sugarcane process, a natural decaffeination method that sets it apart from conventional approaches. The process utilizes ethyl acetate, a compound derived from fermented sugarcane molasses, to gently remove caffeine while preserving the coffee's inherent characteristics.

Colombia has emerged as the global leader in sugarcane decaffeination, combining the country's deep coffee expertise with abundant sugarcane production to create a sustainable, chemical-free processing method. The green coffee beans undergo a careful cycle of soaking and steaming in a sugarcane-based ethyl acetate solution. This cycle is repeated multiple times to extract approximately 97% of the caffeine content while maintaining the bean's structural integrity.

Following decaffeination, the beans are thoroughly cleaned, steamed, and dried to prepare them for roasting. No ethyl acetate residue remains in the finished product. The meticulous nature of this process ensures that the coffee's natural sweetness and complexity survive intact, delivering a decaf experience that honors the coffee's origin character.

The Cup

The result is a balanced and vibrant decaf that defies expectations. The cup profile showcases bright notes of citrus fruit, complemented by the richness of cocoa powder and the subtle depth of plum. This is a comforting, full-flavored coffee that delivers genuine complexity—just without the caffeine.