Decaf Coffee

The Question: Why is my decaf coffee so bitter?

The Answer: Ok, so I always thought this was the case too...decaf coffee couldn't possibly taste as good as the decaffeinated stuff, right? And, it just has to be more bitter...right? Actually, I was as surprised as the asker to learn that this doesn't have to be the case! In fact, often times decaf coffee should be milder and less bitter than it's caffeinated counterpart!

After doing some research on the subject, caffeine is what often lends the bitter flavor to coffee, so theoretically, removing the caffeine should result in a less-bitter taste!

There are 2 main methods of removing caffeine from coffee beans. The first is the "organic" method, and this involves soaking the un-roasted/raw beans in very hot water. This leaches out almost all of the caffeine, and should preserve the coffee's robust flavors. This method should result in a rich tasting coffee that is a bit less bitter than the caffeinated cousin.

The second method of removing the caffeine consists of using a chemical solvent. This method most certainly affects the taste, and depending on the chemicals involved can lead to the bitter coffee that was asked about.

To find the best decaf beans, try high-end coffee establishments that roast their beans on site, and stick to organic coffee beans. This should pretty much ensure that the coffee beans are being treated without chemicals and thus the taste should remain intact! Good luck, and good coffee hunting:)