About Us
More Than Just Decaf
We’re a new UK-based business redefining what decaf coffee can be. We believe that choosing decaf shouldn’t mean compromising on taste or quality.
Our Story
I used to be that person — the one who couldn't imagine starting their day without caffeine. I used to be a death before decaf person... My ritual revolved around specialty coffee, always chasing the next exceptional cup. Then, six years ago, everything changed when I suddenly developed caffeine sensitivity.
The options? Let's be honest — they were bleak. Specialty coffee shops often didn't offer decaf, and when they did, it was treated as an afterthought (e.g., blends, no information about origins and producers). I resigned myself to occasional flat whites, watching from the sidelines as friends explored exciting new roasts and origins...
The Turning Point
During the pandemic lockdowns, my craving for filter coffee returned. I tried every decaf subscription and service I could find, but something was always missing. I had accepted that decaf meant settling for simple, one-dimensional flavours. Chocolate notes? Sure. Traditional coffee taste? Yes... but the complexity, the fruity notes, the floral hints I used to love? Those seemed out of reach.
Until they weren't.
Three years ago, I discovered a natural processed decaf by Jairo Arcila. One cup changed everything I thought I knew about decaf coffee. It was a revelation - proof that exceptional decaf wasn't just possible, it was already happening. I just had to find it.
The Mission
That's how Decaf Before Death was born. Our name? It's a direct challenge to that tired old "Death Before Decaf" motto you've seen plastered across coffee shops. We're flipping the script because we've seen too many coffee lovers made to feel like second-class citizens for choosing decaf.
We're not interested in "good enough" decaf. We're here to showcase the most exciting decaf coffees being produced today. Through extensive research and tasting, we discover the most interesting cups, defying every preconception about what decaf can be.
Our mission is simple: to bring these exceptional decafs to people who thought they had to compromise on taste. Whether you're caffeine-sensitive, reducing your intake, or just curious about great decaf, we're here to show you that choosing decaf doesn't mean choosing less. No compromises, no apologies, and definitely no bland cups of disappointment.
What Sets Us Apart
- Exclusive focus on decaf and low caf: We only curate outstanding decaf coffees, often the result of innovative, experimental processes.
- Quality above all: Each coffee is carefully selected and quality-tested.
- Global connections: We partner with international and UK roasters who share our passion for exceptional decaf.
- More than coffee: Every box comes with information about the coffees, tasting notes, and recommendations for brewing the perfect cup.
What’s Next?
We’re constantly working to improve and expand:
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Exceptional decaf and low-caf drops: In addition to quarterly boxes, we’re planning one-off limited drops of standout decaf coffees from top roasters.
- International delivery: We’re working hard to make worldwide shipping possible.
- More plans: Soon, we’ll introduce more subscription options to fit your needs.
Join us in changing perceptions, one cup at a time.
February 2025 roasters selection
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Hydrangea
Hydrangea is the first roaster for this box with their exceptional Thermal Shock Decaf from Finca El Paraiso! It's a thermal shock washed Castillo coffee by Samuel Diego Bermudez and tastes like raspberries, peach, and key lime! This is the first time this decaf from Hydrangea is available in the UK!
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Onyx
Onyx is our second roaster with one of the most impressive decafs we've ever had, Red Fruits by Sebastian Ramirez, a unique fruit-infused decaffeinated micro-lot. Super fruity — think of strawberry and banana with milk chocolate sweetness.
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Hatch
Hatch is our third roaster with one of the most unusual and innovative decafs out there, Los Nogales Caturra decaf. This is unlike any decaf you've had before with strong herbal and fruity notes. Another Los Nogales decaf was used by the winner of the US Brewers' Cup last year, so this is one not to be missed!
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Zennor
The UK roaster for February is... Zennor! Scotland seems to have some of the best roasters lately and Glasgow based Zennor is definitely one of the finest. Their light roasted decaf is by Wilton Benitez and it's a banger. Sweet, fruity, with a jammy body this is a wonderful decaf with any method.