DECAF Peru – Dulces Suenos

PRODUCER

The ANDE PERUANOS coffee producers association is a non-profit social enterprise founded in 2020 in Jaén, bringing together farmers from families dedicated to coffee cultivation. Its mission is to improve the economic stability of its members, enhance their quality of life, and ensure the sustainability of coffee plantations.

Starting with 162 members in 2020, who collectively produced approximately 115 tons of coffee, the association grew to over 260 members by 2023, with total production exceeding 690 tons. This growth reflects the long-term commitment to improving coffee quality and farming efficiency.

With farms located at altitudes ranging from 980 to 2169 m.a.s.l., the harvest begins in March and extends until October, allowing ANDE PERUANOS to offer coffees with cupping scores ranging from 80 to 86 points. The farmers are committed to sustainable practices and hold NOP-USDA, RTPO, EU, and UTZ Code of Conduct certifications.

PROCESSING

Coffee at ANDE PERUANOS farms is carefully selected and processed with a focus on sustainability and quality. Ripe cherries are selectively harvested, stored in clean containers, and then mechanically de-pulped. The coffee is then fermented for 12 to 24 hours, depending on the farm’s altitude.

After fermentation, the coffee is dried in solar dryers or drying tents, ensuring even drying and the preservation of aromatic compounds. Specialty coffees are stored in polyethylene and polypropylene bags to maintain freshness and quality.

This decaffeinated variant is processed using the Sparkling Water Decaf method. This process was discovered in 1967 by scientist Kurt Zosel at the Max Planck Institute for Coal Research while researching new separation methods. In 1988, the German company CR3 further developed the method for decaffeinating coffee.

In this process, natural carbon dioxide (sourced from underground lakes) is combined with water, creating subcritical conditions that act as a strong caffeine solvent. This gentle, natural, and organically certified method ensures that coffee retains its original flavor and aroma, as the highly selective carbon dioxide removes caffeine while preserving most of the coffee’s essential taste and aromatic compounds.

VARIETY

The ANDE PERUANOS association cultivates a variety of coffee plants, reflecting the diverse microclimates and terroirs of the Jaén region.

This decaf is a blend of different varieties, carefully selected to maintain a balanced flavor profile and full aroma, even after decaffeination.