ESPRESSO | COLOMBIA TUMBAGA SUGARCANE DECAF

Taste notes: GRAPEFRUIT. BROWN SUGAR. BLUEBERRY

Origin: Colombia

Farm: Tumbaga Co-op

Location: Tolima, Antioquia

Altitude: 1400-2100masl

Producers: Various smallholders

Variety: Mixed varieties

Process: EA Sugarcane decaffeination

Grown across the diverse landscapes of Colombia, Tumbaga Sugarcane Decaf brings together coffees from smallholder farmers in Cauca, Tolima, Antioquia, and the Eje Cafetero. These regions benefit from Colombia’s dramatic climatic and geographic diversity: high elevations, fertile volcanic soils, and steady rainfall support year-round production of high-quality cherries. Most farms average just 1 to 4.5 hectares, and the care taken at this small scale ensures cherries are harvested at peak ripeness to preserve sweetness and body—qualities essential for a flavorful decaf espresso.

After picking, the coffees undergo Colombia’s classic fully-washed process. Cherries are depulped, fermented in fresh water, and thoroughly washed before drying, which produces a clean and balanced flavor profile. Once processed, the green coffee is decaffeinated using Colombia’s signature Sugarcane EA method. Ethyl acetate derived from local sugarcane gently removes caffeine while protecting the coffee’s natural aromatics. Because decaffeination can highlight sweetness and acidity, only coffees with high body, elevated sweetness, and lower acidity are selected to ensure the final espresso remains rich, round, and satisfying.

When roasted for espresso, Tumbaga Sugarcane Decaf delivers a cup that defies expectations of decaf. Expect a syrupy sweetness reminiscent of brown sugar, lifted by a bright grapefruit acidity that adds structure without sharpness. As the shot settles, notes of blueberry emerge, bringing a juicy, fruit-forward complexity. The result is a balanced and indulgent espresso—comforting, vibrant, and beautifully layered, all without the caffeine.