Which decaf E.S.E. coffee pods taste like a classic Italian espresso? If you enjoy a bold and creamy espresso, Borbone Dek or Passalacqua Deup may suit you. For a balanced, harmonious flavour, consider Mokambo Decaffeinato or Lucaffè Decaffeinato. Prefer more fruit-forward notes? Moak Classic Decaf is worth exploring.
In this guide, we compare decaffeinated 44 mm E.S.E. coffee pods using the product descriptions of the coffees we carry. The aim is to help you choose according to roast level, body, tasting notes and pack size, rather than relying on the word “decaf” alone.
What does “decaffeinated” coffee actually mean?
Decaffeinated coffee is made from coffee beans from which most of the caffeine has been removed. Nevertheless, small amounts of caffeine may remain. In Switzerland, decaffeinated coffee may contain no more than 0.1% caffeine by mass relative to dry matter after roasting. So “decaf” does not guarantee precisely 0 mg of caffeine per cup.
Decaf is an option for people who want to reduce caffeine intake. Anyone who must avoid even trace amounts for medical reasons should check the manufacturer's information and seek appropriate professional advice. The Article 44 of the Swiss beverage ordinance explains this distinction.
Does decaf E.S.E. coffee taste different from regular espresso?
It depends on the blend, roast, processing and brewing. Decaf does not have to be bland: there are richly roasted Neapolitan-style coffees, balanced blends with chocolate notes and fruitier options. However, a decaf product is not guaranteed to taste exactly the same as its caffeinated counterpart.
Our tip: start with the flavour profile you normally enjoy in espresso. When comparing coffees, use the same E.S.E. machine and similar brewing volumes wherever possible.
1. Caffè Borbone Dek: bold, creamy and chocolatey
Caffè Borbone Miscela Dek E.S.E. pods (50) are aimed at drinkers who enjoy characterful Italian espresso but want much less caffeine. The product description highlights an intense, creamy cup with cocoa and chocolate notes and a slightly sweet finish.
Worth trying if: you enjoy southern Italian espresso with plenty of body and pronounced roasted flavours.
2. Passalacqua Deup: dark roast and malty notes
Passalacqua Deup Decaf E.S.E. pods (50) use a blend of 80% Arabica and 20% Robusta. The product information describes a dark roast and a malty flavour profile, making this an option for fans of distinctive Neapolitan-style coffee.
Worth trying if: you want a dark-roasted espresso with malty character.
3. Kimbo Decaffeinato: full body, sweetness and fruit
Kimbo Decaffeinato E.S.E. pods (50) are described as 85% Arabica and 15% Robusta. The flavour profile combines a full body with sweet notes, a subtle fruity finish and velvety crema.
Worth trying if: you appreciate a rich mouthfeel with a touch of sweetness and fruit.
4. Mokambo Decaffeinato: balanced and creamy
Mokambo Decaffeinato E.S.E. pods (50) combine Arabica and Robusta. The 50-pod version is described as medium roasted, harmonious, balanced and creamy. Its product information also specifies residual caffeine of no more than 0.10%.
Worth trying if: you prefer a straightforward, balanced espresso with classic body.
5. Moak Classic Decaf: floral and fruity
If you want something different from a very dark Neapolitan roast, Moak Classic Decaf E.S.E. pods (50) have a floral, fruit-forward profile. The product description mentions apple, apricot and a creamy, balanced body.
Worth trying if: you enjoy fruitier nuances and an espresso that feels more delicate.
6. Lucaffè Decaffeinato: 100% Arabica with chocolate notes
Lucaffè Decaffeinato 100% Arabica E.S.E. pods (150) offer a larger pack for regular decaf drinkers. The blend is described as balanced with delicate sweetness and chocolate notes.
Worth trying if: you like a harmonious Arabica blend and already know your preference. If you are new to decaf, starting with a smaller tasting selection may make more sense.
Choose your decaf espresso by flavour profile
- Intense, creamy and chocolatey: Caffè Borbone Dek.
- Dark-roasted and malty: Passalacqua Deup.
- Full-bodied, sweet and subtly fruity: Kimbo Decaffeinato.
- Medium roasted, balanced and creamy: Mokambo Decaffeinato.
- Floral and fruity: Moak Classic Decaf.
- 100% Arabica with sweet, chocolatey notes: Lucaffè Decaffeinato.
These are flavour descriptions from product information, not guaranteed tasting results. The water volume and brewing method also affect how each coffee tastes.
Not sure which decaf you prefer? Try a tasting set
You do not need to buy several large packs to compare Italian roasters. Our Decaf E.S.E. tasting set (36 pods) brings together several decaffeinated blends. Its product description specifies three pods from each of twelve Italian coffee brands. Check the current assortment at the time of purchase.
Explore our wider decaffeinated coffee collection, which also includes other coffee formats. For a pod machine, always check that the product is explicitly labelled 44 mm E.S.E.
Five things to check before buying decaf E.S.E. pods
- Compatibility: make sure your machine supports standard 44 mm E.S.E. pods. Senseo® pads and Nespresso® capsules are not interchangeable.
- Flavour: choose among bold roasts, chocolate notes, balanced coffees and fruitier styles.
- Pack size: start with a smaller pack or tasting set; choose a bulk pack once you know your favourite.
- Residual caffeine: decaffeinated means very little caffeine, not necessarily absolutely none.
- Storage: follow the packaging instructions and protect the pods from moisture.
Unsure which pods fit your machine? Read our guide to 44 mm E.S.E. pod compatibility.
Frequently asked questions about decaf E.S.E. pods
Are decaf E.S.E. pods completely caffeine-free?
Not necessarily. Trace amounts can remain. In Switzerland, the maximum caffeine content for decaffeinated coffee is 0.1% of dry mass after roasting.
Which decaf E.S.E. pods taste like bold Italian espresso?
Borbone Dek is described as bold and creamy, while Passalacqua Deup offers a dark roast and malty notes. Personal taste will determine which you prefer.
Which decaf pods taste more balanced or fruity?
Mokambo Decaffeinato has a harmonious, creamy character. Moak Classic Decaf offers floral and fruit-forward notes, including apple and apricot.
Can I use these pods in a Faber or Didiesse Frog machine?
Yes, if your exact machine model supports standard 44 mm E.S.E. pods. Decaffeination does not change the required pod format.
Are all decaf E.S.E. pods suitable for lungo?
No. For a larger coffee, choose a decaf blend specifically intended for lungo or café crème and follow the relevant brewing recommendations.
What is the best decaf to try first?
A tasting set is a practical way to compare bold, balanced and sweeter profiles before buying a large pack of your favourite.
Conclusion: less caffeine, plenty of flavour options
Decaf E.S.E. pods come in bold, creamy, balanced and fruitier styles. Borbone Dek and Passalacqua Deup are strong starting points for Neapolitan-style coffee, while Mokambo, Moak and Lucaffè offer other flavour profiles.
Browse our 44 mm E.S.E. pods and decaffeinated coffees or start with a tasting set to discover your personal favourite.
