Have you ever wondered how coffee is decaffeinated? With all the recent buzz about decaf, you might be asking if it’s safe and, more importantly, if it tastes good. We're here to answer your questions and give you a behind-the-scenes look at how the exceptional decaf coffees at Wonderstate are processed.
Coffee is laid out to dry on the COMSA patio in Honduras before undergoing the decaffeination process.
At Wonderstate, all of our decaf coffees are processed using the acclaimed Mountain Water Process (MWP). This method unfolds in four meticulous stages:
- Steaming: Raw coffee beans are first steamed at high temperatures to open their natural pores, preparing them for the decaffeination process.
- Soaking: After steaming, the beans are soaked in a mixture of water and an organic solution developed by the experts at Descamex. This solution mirrors the natural composition of coffee beans, minus the caffeine molecules. As the beans soak, they gently release their caffeine, leaving behind all the rich flavors we love, without the buzz.
- Drying: The decaffeinated beans are then carefully dried to optimal moisture levels through a multi-step process that preserves their physical integrity and flavor profile.
- Finally, the coffee undergoes a meticulous milling process to remove any defective seeds and foreign particles, ensuring that only the freshest, cleanest, and tastiest decaf beans make it to your cup.
In the past, decaffeination often involved harsh chemical solutions that not only compromised flavor but also posed risks to both consumers and the environment. Since our inception, Wonderstate has been committed to sourcing coffee decaffeinated through the safest and most natural methods available. Descamex has earned global acclaim for their work, producing decaf coffees that are not only delicious but also exceptionally safe.
Café Orgánico Marcala (COMSA) was founded in December of 2001 with a vision of creating new and alternative development opportunities for small-scale coffee farmers in the region of Marcala, Honduras.
We're excited to introduce the latest release in our rotating light roast decaf series, sourced from the COMSA cooperative in Honduras. Decaffeinated by the talented Descamex team, this coffee retains the distinct flavors we cherish in Honduran beans. In your cup, you’ll discover rich notes of chocolate, caramel, and nougat, balanced by a citrusy acidity and a smooth, lingering finish.