This coffee is produced by 25 smallholder producers in the Santa Maria Community. Some of these farmers are well-known to produce high-quality coffees and regularly take part in quality competitions for green coffee. Their coffees are also sold separately, but they all contribute part of their beans to this community decaf lot, which is then processed further.

The Coffee Quest exports this coffee for us. The company operates a washing station nearby and works closely with the producers, supporting them in improving quality, economic issues and sustainability. For example, training is provided on how to efficiently compost the pulp of the coffee cherries left over after processing without damaging the soil. Or they look at how to deal with waste water from coffee processing.

The coffee is decaffeinated using the ethyl acetate method, also known as the sugarcane process. Ethanol is obtained from the fermented syrup of sugar cane, which is available in large quantities in Colombia. This alcohol is mixed with acetic acid to produce ethyl acetate, which is then diluted with water. The coffee beans are first steamed to open the pore structure and then soaked in the liquid. This binds the caffeine and is then disposed of. The process is repeated several time and each time more caffeine is transported out of the beans. Finally, they are steamed again to remove any residues of the ethyl acetate before the beans are dried once again.

El Dragón Decaf allows you to enjoy specialty coffee without caffeine, creating a balanced cup with a smooth texture and plenty of sweetness. That sweetness is perfectly complemented by a slightly berry-like acidity and notes of dried stone fruit.