India Ratnagiri Estate (Chemical Free) Decaf Coffee

Our first carbon dioxide decaf in a long while and our first Indian coffee to go with it - this one was a really pleasant surprise on the cupping table. Great complexity, acidity and finish!

The Carbon Dioxide Method of decaffeination is similar to the various water process methods in its use of a basic material to keep the coffee as natural as possible. Some would argue that it has a flavour advantage over water and other solvent-based processes in the sense that the carbon dioxide more selectively targets the caffeine with less movement of flavour compounds between bean and solvent.

In this method, the beans are bathed in pressurised liquid carbon dioxide which dissolves and draws the caffeine from the beans. The carbon dioxide and caffeine are then pumped to an absorption chamber where the pressure is released, leaving the caffeine as residue. The now-gaseous carbon dioxide can then be re-pressurised and reused for more beans.

The Ratnagiri Estate has been run by the Patre family since 1920. The name, translating to "Pearl Mountain", refers to the silver oaks which dominate the landscape of the estate and provide shade for the coffee plants. Biodiversity is at the centre of this farm's philosophy, with the land providing a home to many bird species in addition to monkeys, leopards, wild boars, tigers and elephants. The owner, Ashok, has travelled to many of the world's famous coffee farms, picking up tips to improve quality at the estate. The proof is in the cup!

• Marzipan, Chocolate Brownie, Cherry
• Decaffeination - Carbon Dioxide Method
• Altitude - 1280-1417 masl
• Process - Washed
• Variety - Catuai