We haven’t published an article about decaffeinated coffee since July 2010. At the time, the samples we cupped “tested my optimism,” to quote Kenneth Davids. Only one of the 50 decafs we cupped earned a score of 90 points, namely Decaf South America Blend by Cafe Valverde.
However, it appears that decaf drinkers in 2013 have reason to be more optimistic. Over the past three years, we have discovered several fine decaf coffees and espressos that earned 90 points or more. So far in 2013, we have rated two decafs at 90 points or higher:
Our Best Decaf (Espresso) by Seattle Coffee Works – 91 points.
Decaf Organic Papua New Guinea by Groundwork Coffee – 90 points.
Looking back in 2011 and 2012, Doi Chaang Coffee (Vancouver, BC), Coava Coffee (Portland, OR), and Fresh Coffee Beans and Tea House (Hong Kong) also earned scores of 90 points or higher for their decafs.
Based on recent search results on CoffeeReview.com, many of our readers are looking for quality decaf coffees. We would be interested to hear from other readers and roasters who have found or are producing exceptional decafs.
