Decaf is exactly the same.

I'm going to have to argue that point. The best decaf is just ok. Typical decaf is pretty noticeably bad.

I go on decaf stints occasionally, and not opposed to it. I'm grateful it exists. But you do pay for it in taste.

I wonder how it fares in double blind comparisons.

Maybe you can tell, maybe not?

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/decaf-vs-regular-coffee-taste...