Decaf coffee has a reputation of tasting, well, not as great as its caffeinated counterpart. Despite evolving technology to decaffeinate coffee beans, the process still strips coffee beans of a lot of its aroma, flavor, and acidity.
However, half caff is an option that is growing in popularity and may satisfy a decaf drinker's need for less caffeine but more (and arguably better) flavor. We'll be talking about what exactly half caff coffee is and if it's right for you.
What is Half Caff Coffee?
Half caff coffee is a blend of both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee beans, usually in a 50/50 ratio. It usually uses the same type or kinds of beans for each type of coffee so that the flavor is consistent. Half caff offers have the half the caffeine of a regular cup of coffee and adds back the flavor that a full decaf coffee supposedly lacks. In coffee shops, it's often called "split shot" or a "half and half", but we suggest asking the barista or roaster beforehand just to make sure.
Why Drink Half Caff Coffee?
If you're someone who drinks decaf and misses more complex flavors that full caffeinated coffee offers, half caff may be for you. If you're someone who drinks caffeinated coffee but is looking to cut the caffeine but don't want to sacrifice flavor, then half call also might be for you. Too much caffeine can lead to caffeine addiction, high blood pressure, insomnia, and other negative side effects. (Source) It can also heighten anxiety in people who experience anxiety. 
Related article: IS DECAF COFFEE HEALTHY?
While we can't guarantee you'll like half caff coffee, we think it's a great alternative and compromise between both decaf and caffeinated coffee. We suggest giving it a try to see how you feel.
How to Make Half Caff Coffee at Home
Making half caff coffee at home is easy. All you need two types of the same coffee beans, caffeinated and decaffeinated. Then, measure out equal amounts of both and grind them together when you make your coffee.
You can also mix the coffee beans together in bulk, but we don't recommend this because the beans might disperse unevenly and you won't know which is which.
At Bean & Bean, we take pride in having some of the tastiest decaf beans available. See for yourself by browsing our single origin decaf beans.
