No matter how much caffeine you consume in a day, there will always be a time when you need to wind down and get some good sleep.
Australian coffee drinkers, this is for you! Here are the 10 best decaf coffees in Australia. We’ve done the research so that you don’t have to, and we’re confident that these coffees will keep you satisfied all year long.
So, sit back, relax, and enjoy a cup of coffee, without the jitters.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favourites in 2022
The 10 Best Decaf Coffees in Australia
1. Mount Hagen: Organic Café Decaffeinated – Best Overall
| Coffee type: | Instant |
| Roast: | Medium |
| Dominant taste profile: | Nutty, fruity, warm spice |
For coffee lovers who prefer to avoid caffeine, Mount Hagen: Organic Café Decaffeinated decaf coffee is a great option. This coffee is certified organic and Fairtrade, ensuring that it was produced in accordance with high standards.
In addition, Mount Hagen is an award-winning brand, so you can be confident that you’re getting a quality product. The coffee has a strong aroma, making it perfect for enjoying first thing in the morning.
However, some reviewers find that it lacks the depth of flavor of fresh coffee. Additionally, the coffee takes longer to dissolve than some brands, so it may not be ideal for people who are in a hurry.
Pros
- Organic
- Fairtrade
- Award-winning brand
- Strong aroma
Cons
- Lacks depth of fresh coffee
- Slow to dissolve
2. NESCAFÉ Decaffeinated Cappuccino Coffee Sachets – Best Value
| Coffee type: | Instant sachets |
| Roast: | Light |
| Dominant taste profile: | Creamy |
NESCAFÉ Decaffeinated Cappuccino Coffee Sachets offer a full, cafe-style drink in a convenient single-serve package. Simply add hot water to dissolve the sachet and enjoy a rich, creamy cappuccino.
Although the sachets do contain dairy, they are a good option for those looking for an affordable, decaf coffee option.
However, be aware that the packaging contains a lot of plastic. For best results, use filtered water and freshly ground coffee. If you’re looking for the best decaf coffee for the money, NESCAFÉ Decaffeinated Cappuccino Coffee Sachets are a great option.
Pros
- Full drink in a convenient single-serve package
- Creates froth when dissolving
- Cafe taste at a very affordable price
Cons
- Contains dairy and sugar
- Excess plastic packaging
3. Kicking Horse Coffee, Decaf, Swiss Water Process – Premium Choice
| Coffee type: | Whole bean |
| Roast: | Dark |
| Dominant taste profile: | Hazelnuts, chocolate |
Kicking Horse Coffee is a brand of coffee that is known for its rich flavour and mellow aftertaste, and their decaf roast does not disappoint. The coffee is made using the Swiss Water Process, which is a decaffeination method that doesn’t compromise on taste.
The coffee is also Fairtrade, which means that it has been sourced from farmers who have been paid a fair price for their product.
However, the coffee is relatively costly, which may be off-putting for some consumers. Overall, Kicking Horse Coffee is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a rich and flavourful cup of coffee.
Pros
- Rich flavour with a mellow aftertaste
- Fairtrade
- Doesn’t compromise on taste
4. The Organic Coffee Co. Gorilla Decaf
| Coffee type: | Whole bean |
| Roast: | Medium |
| Dominant taste profile: | Creamy, spice |
The Organic Coffee Co. Gorilla Decaf is a strong and intense coffee made with beans that are shade-grown and organic. The coffee is low in acid, making it easier on the stomach for those who are sensitive to this.
The coffee also has a deep and rich flavour, with hints of chocolate and caramel. However, some people may find the coffee too intense, and the oils from the beans can clog up machines if they are not cleaned properly.
The packaging is also clear plastic, which makes the beans vulnerable to UV exposure if not stored properly.
Pros
- Organic and shade-grown
- Low acid
- Strong, intense flavours
Cons
- Oils of beans may clog machines
- Poor packaging
5. Marley Coffee Simmer Down Decaf
| Coffee type: | Whole bean |
| Roast: | Medium |
| Dominant taste profile: | Cocoa, sweet spice |
If you’re looking for a high-quality decaf coffee, Marley Coffee Simmer Down Decaf is a great option. This coffee is Swiss water processed, meaning that it’s free of chemicals and toxins.
It’s also affordably priced when bought in bulk. Additionally, this coffee has been highly rated by many satisfied customers. However, it’s worth noting that single bags are not available for purchase online.
Pros
- Bulk buy
- Highly-rated
- Swiss water processed
Cons
- Single bags are unavailable online
6. Starbucks by Nespresso Espresso Decaf Coffee Pods
| Coffee type: | Pods |
| Roast: | Dark |
| Dominant taste profile: | Rich caramel |
If you’re a fan of Starbucks coffee but are looking for an affordable and more sustainable option, you may want to try Nespresso Espresso Decaf Coffee Pods. These pods are made from recycled aluminum and are 100% recyclable, so you can feel good about your environmental impact. I
In terms of coffee taste, reviewers found that the Nespresso pods delivered a smooth, high-quality espresso with no bitterness. One downside, however, is a large amount of packaging required for each pod. If you’re trying to reduce your waste, this may not be the best option for you. Overall, though, reviewers were impressed with the quality of coffee and thought the price was fair.
Pros
- Affordable
- High-quality coffee taste
- Smooth blend
Cons
- Large amount of packaging
7. Bulletproof Coffee – The Original Swiss Water Decaf
| Coffee type: | Ground |
| Roast: | Medium |
| Dominant taste profile: | Cinnamon, plum, hazelnut |
When it comes to coffee, there are a lot of choices out there. But if you’re looking for a cup of joe that is both sustainably sourced and packs a punch, then you may want to check out Bulletproof Coffee—The Original Swiss Water Decaf.
All the coffee beans used in this blend are decaffeinated using the Swiss Water method, which is a completely natural way to remove caffeine from coffee beans. In addition, the coffee beans are sourced from sustainable farms that use environmentally friendly practices.
As for the taste, this coffee has a bold flavour that is sure to wake you up in the morning. However, it should be noted that Bulletproof Coffee—The Original Swiss Water Decaf is on the expensive side. Nonetheless, if you’re looking for a cup of coffee that is both flavorful and eco-friendly, then this may be the blend for you.
Pros
- All coffee is tested for toxins
- Sustainable farming practises
- Packs a punch
8. San Francisco Bay Coffee Decaf Gourmet Blend
| Coffee type: | Whole bean |
| Roast: | Medium |
| Dominant taste profile: | Full-bodied, rich |
If you’re in the market for a delicious and ethical cup of coffee, look no further than San Francisco Bay Coffee Decaf Gourmet Blend. This coffee has a rich, deep flavor that is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Additionally, the coffee beans are ethically sourced, so you can rest assured that your cup of joe is making a positive impact on the world. The only downside to this coffee is that it is on the expensive side. However, given the quality of the beans and the ethical sourcing, we think it’s worth the extra few dollars.
So if you’re looking for an amazing cup of coffee that also supports a great cause, be sure to check out San Francisco Bay Coffee Decaf Gourmet Blend!
Pros
- Deep and rich taste
- Nice aroma
- Ethical brand
9. Early Riser House Decaf Ground Coffee
| Coffee type: | Ground |
| Roast: | Medium |
| Dominant taste profile: | Smooth and rich |
If you’re looking for a great-tasting decaf coffee that won’t break the bank, Early Riser House Decaf Ground Coffee is a great option. This coffee has a deep, rich flavour that is surprisingly enjoyable for decaf coffee.
However, it does have a slight bitterness that some coffee drinkers may find off-putting. Additionally, this coffee lacks the characteristic aroma that is often associated with fresh-brewed coffee.
Despite these minor drawbacks, Early Riser House Decaf Ground Coffee offers excellent value for the price.
Pros
- Great depth of flavour
- Affordable option
Cons
- Slight bitterness
- Lack of aroma while brewing
10. Larry’s Coffee Decaf Twilight
| Coffee type: | Whole beans |
| Roast: | Medium |
| Dominant taste profile: | Chocolate malt |
Larry’s Coffee Decaf Twilight Decaf Coffee is a smooth blend of organic coffee beans. The coffee is certified by the B-Corporation, meaning that it meets high standards for social and environmental responsibility.
Larry’s Coffee is also committed to transparency, fair trade, and sustainability. The coffee is pricier than some brands, but it is worth the price for the quality of the product.
The coffee has a rich flavor and a smooth texture. It is also free of harmful pesticides and herbicides. Larry’s Coffee Decaf Twilight Decaf Coffee is a great choice for those who want to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee without the caffeine.
Pros
- Organic
- Certified B-Corporation
- Smooth blend
Buyer’s Guide: Finding the Best Decaf Coffee in Australia
What is Decaf Coffee?
Decaf coffee is coffee that has had the vast majority of its caffeine removed. While there is no such thing as “caffeine-free” coffee, decaf coffees have only trace amounts of caffeine, typically less than 2.5%.
The decaf coffee process starts with regular coffee beans that have been cultivated and roasted. Once the beans are ready, they undergo a chemical process that removes the caffeine. This process can be done through either solvent-based extraction or water-based extraction.
In terms of taste, decaf coffee is surprisingly similar to its caffeinated counterpart. However, it does tend to be slightly less flavorful and aromatic. For those who enjoy the taste of coffee but can’t tolerate caffeine, decaf is a great alternative. Just don’t expect it to give you the same energy boost as the real thing.
How is Coffee Decaffeinated?
Decaffeinated coffee is the perfect solution for those who want to enjoy the flavor of coffee without the caffeine jolt. But how is coffee decaffeinated? And is it safe?
Swiss Water Process
Named for its place of origin, the Swiss Water Process uses only water and osmosis to remove caffeine from coffee beans. The beans are first soaked in hot water to dissolve the caffeine. The water is then passed through a filter containing charcoal made from green coffee beans. This process removes the caffeine but leaves behind other essential oils and flavors. The result is a cup of coffee that is 99.9% caffeine-free and has a rich, full flavor.
Carbon Dioxide Process
The Carbon Dioxide Process involves using pressurized carbon dioxide to extract the caffeine from the beans. The process begins by soaking the beans in water to make them more porous.
Next, the beans are placed in a chamber and treated with pressurized carbon dioxide. The caffeine molecules are attracted to the carbon dioxide and bind to it, while the rest of the bean remains intact.
Finally, the carbon dioxide is allowed to evaporate, leaving behind a coffee bean that is 99.9% caffeine-free. So, next time you reach for a cup of decaf, know that there’s a bit of science behind that brew.
Indirect-Solvent Process
This process begins by soaking the coffee beans in water to extract the caffeine. The water is then removed and replaced with a solvent, typically methylene chloride or ethyl acetate.
The solvent binds to the caffeine molecules and extracts them from the beans. The beans are then soaked in water again to remove any residual solvent.
Finally, the beans are dried and roasted to create decaffeinated coffee. While this process is effective at removing caffeine, it can also strip away some of the coffee’s flavor and aroma.
Direct-Solvent Process
The Direct-solvent Process works by immersing the beans in a solvent, such as methylene chloride or ethyl acetate. This solvent binds to the caffeine molecules and extracts them from the bean.
The beans are then rinsed with water to remove any residual solvent. The Direct-solvent Process is effective and relatively quick, but it can also be controversial because of the use of chemicals.
Critics argue that traces of these solvents may be left behind on the beans, leading to health concerns. However, there is no conclusive evidence that this is actually the case.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Decaf Coffee
Decaf coffee gets a bad rap, but it’s actually a healthy and delicious drink. Here’s a look at some of the benefits and drawbacks of decaf coffee.
Pros
- Has a lower caffeine content than regular coffee
- A great alternative for those who can’t tolerate caffeine
- Good choice for pregnant women
- Has a rich, full flavor that is surprisingly similar to regular coffee
Cons
- May be less flavorful and aromatic than regular coffee
- Doesn’t provide the same energy boost as regular coffee
- Decaffeination process can strip away some of the coffee’s flavor and aroma
- Some decaffeination processes use chemicals that may be controversial
So, there you have it—everything you need to know about decaf coffee. Whether you’re looking for a healthy alternative to regular coffee or just want to enjoy the flavor without the caffeine kick, decaf coffee is a great choice. Just be sure to choose a quality brand and enjoy!
Conclusion
Our favourite decaf choice is Mount Hagens instant coffee. It’s rich, full-flavored, and comes in a convenient instant form. If you’re looking for a good quality decaf coffee, Mount Hagen is a great option.
To get the best value with a café-style drink at a low cost, consider Nescafe Decaffeinated Cappuccino Coffee Sachets. It’s a classic coffee with a smooth taste, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy the flavor of coffee without the caffeine.
Featured Image Credit: David O. Andersen, Unsplash
