Guatemala SHB Mountain Water Decaf
Caturra & Bourbon — Apricots • Raisin • Almond • Dark Chocolate
Decaf doesn’t have to mean compromise. Our Guatemala SHB Mountain Water Decaf is crafted for coffee lovers who want full origin character, rich sweetness, and unmistakable Guatemalan depth—just without the caffeine. Sourced from high-altitude farms and processed using a clean, water-based decaffeination method, this coffee delivers a satisfying cup that stands proudly alongside any of our fully caffeinated offerings.
High-Altitude Excellence: What “SHB” Means
In Guatemala, the grade “SHB – Strictly Hard Bean” is reserved for coffees grown at elevations typically above 1,300 meters. The cooler temperatures at these heights slow the cherries’ maturation, creating denser beans with greater aromatic complexity and enhanced sweetness. These ideal growing conditions—fertile volcanic soil, crisp mountain air, and abundant shade—shape the distinct flavor profile that Guatemalan coffees are celebrated for worldwide.
Our Mountain Water Decaf originates from regions known for producing exceptional Caturra and Bourbon varietals. These classic Latin American cultivars thrive in Guatemala’s highlands, offering a beautiful balance of clarity, sweetness, and structure. Bourbon contributes elegance and gentle fruit tones, while Caturra adds brightness and a smooth, clean finish.
The Mountain Water Process: Clean, Careful, and Flavor-Protective
Decaffeination is often misunderstood, but the method matters—and in this case, it makes all the difference. The Mountain Water Process is a water-based, chemical-free technique designed to remove caffeine while preserving the coffee’s natural flavor compounds. The process begins by soaking the green beans in pure water to draw out caffeine and soluble materials. That water is then passed through filters that remove caffeine molecules while leaving behind the desirable flavor solids. The beans are reintroduced to this now caffeine-free, flavor-rich water, allowing them to reabsorb their original character before drying.
The result is a decaf coffee that remains true to its origin, retaining its sweetness, aromatics, and complexity without the flat or hollow notes often associated with lower-grade decaf. For anyone seeking a specialty-grade decaf option, this process offers one of the best flavor-preserving outcomes in the industry.
Flavor Profile: Sweet Fruit, Gentle Nut, and Deep Cocoa
This Guatemalan decaf opens with stone-fruit brightness—apricot-like sweetness that gives the cup a lively introduction. As the temperature drops, the sweetness deepens into raisin and dried-fruit notes, carrying a cozy warmth that feels both comforting and refined.
The middle of the cup brings soft almond tones, a hallmark of well-roasted high-altitude Guatemalan coffee. These nutty nuances create a rounded, smooth texture that performs beautifully in multiple brew methods.
Finally, the finish lands on dark chocolate—rich, layered, and lingering. This grounding cocoa note gives the coffee excellent structure, especially for drinkers who enjoy espresso, lattes, or Americanos in the evening without the caffeine kick.
A Decaf You Can Brew With Confidence
One of the standout features of this coffee is versatility. Whether brewed as a pour-over, batch brew, or espresso, it delivers a balanced cup with clarity and sweetness.
Filter brews highlight the apricot brightness and almond sweetness.
Espresso emphasizes the dark chocolate and raisin tones, making it ideal for decaf cappuccinos or lattes.
Cold brew (yes—even decaf!) brings out a smooth, cocoa-forward sweetness with almost no bitterness.
Because decaf beans roast and extract slightly differently from caffeinated coffees, we give this coffee its own tailored roast profile in our roastery. Our goal is simple: bring out the fruit sweetness without losing the rich chocolate character that makes Guatemalan coffees so beloved.
Good Coffee, Good Practices, Good Impact
At Bella Goose Roastery, we believe decaf should receive the same level of care as any specialty coffee. By selecting high-altitude Guatemalan beans and opting for a clean decaffeination method, we ensure that every cup reflects our commitment to quality, sustainability, and people-first hospitality.
This Mountain Water Decaf lets you enjoy a beautiful specialty-coffee experience at any time of day or night. Whether you’re unwinding in the evening, taking a caffeine break, or simply want a smooth, sweet, easy-to-love cup—this coffee offers comfort, clarity, and craftsmanship in every sip.