Peet’s Major Dickason’s Blend

What Is Peet’s Major Dickason’s Blend?

Major Dickason’s Blend was created in the late 1960s when a loyal customer, retired army officer Key Dickason, collaborated with Alfred Peet to craft a blend that captured depth and complexity. Today, it remains Peet’s best‑selling dark roast.

Key characteristics of Major Dickason’s Blend:

• Origin: Beans sourced from the Americas and Indo‑Pacific regions
• Creation: Developed by Alfred Peet and Major Dickason in Berkeley, California
• Popularity: Considered Peet’s signature blend and a benchmark for dark roast lovers
• Availability: Sold as whole bean, ground, and K‑Cup pods

This blend represents Peet’s philosophy of crafting coffee with boldness and character, appealing to those who enjoy a strong yet balanced cup.

Flavor Profile and Roast Level of Peet’s Major Dickason’s Blend

Peet’s describes Major Dickason’s Blend as a dark roast with a complex flavor profile. Coffee reviewers highlight notes of earth, spice, dark chocolate, and smoky undertones, with a smooth finish.

Flavor highlights:

• Dark chocolate – Rich, bittersweet notes
• Smoky undertones – Classic dark roast character
• Smooth body – Balanced mouthfeel despite intensity
• Earthy spice – Adds depth and complexity

This roast level appeals to drinkers who prefer bold, full‑bodied coffee without excessive acidity.

Caffeine in Peet’s Major Dickason’s Blend: By Serving Size

Caffeine content varies depending on serving size and preparation. On average, an 8‑ounce cup of Major Dickason’s Blend contains approximately 150–200 mg of caffeine.

Approximate caffeine levels:

• 6 oz cup: 100–200 mg
• 8 oz cup: 150–200 mg
• 12 oz cup: 225–300 mg
• Espresso shot (1 oz): 70 mg

These values are averages; actual caffeine depends on grind size, brewing time, and bean extraction.

How Brewing Methods Affect Caffeine Content

The way you brew Peet’s Major Dickason’s Blend has a direct impact on how much caffeine ends up in your cup. Factors such as water temperature, grind size, steeping time, and coffee‑to‑water ratio all influence extraction.

Caffeine by brewing style:

• Drip coffee: 80–120 mg per 8 oz cup
• French press: Higher caffeine due to longer steeping
• Espresso: 70 mg per 1 oz shot, concentrated
• Cold brew: Often higher caffeine (200+ mg per 8 oz) due to extended steeping
• Aeropress: Adjustable caffeine depending on steep time and grind

Choosing a brewing method allows coffee drinkers to tailor caffeine strength to their preferences.

Tips for Enjoying Your Coffee Without Overconsuming Caffeine

Coffee is one of life’s pleasures, but too much caffeine can lead to jitters, insomnia, or digestive discomfort. With Peet’s Major Dickason’s Blend delivering a bold flavor and moderate‑to‑high caffeine content, it’s important to enjoy it responsibly.

Practical tips:

• Limit intake to 2–3 cups per day
• Avoid caffeine late in the evening to protect sleep
• Alternate with decaf versions of Major Dickason’s Blend
• Pair coffee with food to slow caffeine absorption
• Stay hydrated to balance stimulant effects

These habits help maximize enjoyment while minimizing jitters or insomnia.

Health Considerations When Drinking Caffeinated Coffee

Coffee offers health benefits but also requires mindful consumption.

Potential benefits:

• Lower risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease
• Improved focus, alertness, and mood
• Antioxidants that protect cells from damage

Potential drawbacks:

• Sleep disruption if consumed late
• Anxiety or digestive issues in sensitive individuals
• Elevated heart rate with excessive intake

Most experts recommend keeping caffeine intake below 400 mg per day for healthy adults.