More and more people are looking for coffee they can enjoy any time of day, without the caffeine. Whether for health, balance, or simply taste, the demand for decaf coffee is rising fast, and we are looking for options that don’t compromise on quality.
That’s where our new Colombian come in. We started sourcing and refining decaf lots that not only meet our quality requirements but also reflect the origin’s character, as with all our regular lots. Our Colombian washed and natural coffees come from the Huila region, and some are also offered as regular caffeine coffee on our offer list. They are naturally decaffeinated at Descafecol, an experienced partner at origin using the E.A method. The result? Sweet, fruit-forward cups that are just as enjoyable as their caffeinated counterparts.
About the Natural Sugarcane Decaffeination Method
The Sugarcane or E.A. (Ethyl Acetate) process is also called “The Natural Decaffeination Method”. At Nordic Approach, we prefer this process because it has the least negative effect on the coffee beans. But how does it work?
It begins by fermenting molasses from locally grown sugarcane to create ethanol, which is then combined with acetic acid to produce ethyl acetate, a naturally occurring compound also found in fruits, wine, and beer.
The coffee is first steamed to open its pores, then immersed in a water solution containing E.A., which selectively binds to and removes caffeine. Once the caffeine is filtered out, the beans are steamed again to eliminate any trace of the solvent before being dried and prepared for export.
Because this method uses moderate temperature and pressure, it helps preserve the coffee’s cell structure and flavour integrity. The trade-off is that decaf processed this way can age a little faster than non-decaf coffees, sometimes showing a slightly “sweaty” or darker surface once roasted, but that’s all part of its natural character.
Decaffeinated Coffees on the Offer List
This season, we’re excited to offer a standout selection of Colombian decaffeinated coffees, which are now either incoming or in-stock already. Get in touch with your sales representative to reserve your lots.
Amenaza Menor Decaf #1 (CO-26-0031)
Amenaza Menor is a blend of mostly microlots, with the vast majority made up of washed coffees from Central Huila, Colombia. There’s also one honey-processed lot from Nariño, making up around one-seventh of the blend.
The name translates directly to “Minor Threat” in Spanish, a nod to the influential early-’80s Washington, D.C. punk band that helped spark the straight edge movement. A fitting joke for a coffee that lets you skip the caffeine.
Siete Soles Decaf #1 (CO-26-0046) & Siete Soles Decaf #2 (CO-26-0047)
These two naturals were carefully selected by our Green Buyer, Enki, while searching for coffees with specific profiles and the potential to stand out. Siete Soles was chosen for its fruity, funky character. After decaffeination using the sugarcane method, the lingering sweetness from the process helps balance the coffee’s funkiness, resulting in a unique option.
Santa Maria Decaf #1: CO-26-0045
Enki’s philosophy is that an exceptionally good washed lot can make a fantastic decaf if processed correctly. This is why he selected this Santa Maria collective lot. The Santa Maria region, where this coffee was harvested, is surrounded by mountains and the Nevado del Huila Volcano. The exceptional combination of microclimates and long-standing fermentation traditions gives the coffee its characteristic sweetness and delicate floral and fruity notes.
Now is a great time to add a decaf to your menu, giving your customers more choice without compromising on flavour.
Get ‘em while they’re fresh!
