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, sort of... 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 and 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 (or even on tattoos). 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. No generic "Colombian decaf" from us.
• Led by passion: The star of the show is the coffee. We allocate most of our budget on tasty decaf and follow a DIY approach. 
• 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.
• Rare and unique decaf: We source unusual and rare decaf and even roast some in our nanoroastery. Our highlight so far has been the first EA decaf gesha! We're the only place in Europe and the US offering it!

Join us in changing perceptions, one cup at a time.