Coffee Roasting Levels

Coffee, from its tiny, aromatic beans, has become an integral part of our daily lives, bringing with it not just flavors but a rich cultural heritage. In the journey from coffee plant to steaming cup, the roasting process is one of the most crucial steps, shaping the flavor and characteristics of the coffee. Today, let's explore the various levels of coffee roasting and how each level impacts the final flavor.

Light Roast

Light roast, also known as Cinnamon Roast or Blond Roast, is the level where coffee beans are roasted just until they turn a light yellowish-brown. At this stage, the beans retain almost all of their original characteristics. The flavor is typically highly acidic, with distinct fruity and floral notes.

Light roast is the perfect choice for those who enjoy a fresh taste and want to experience the true flavors of each coffee bean variety. Lightly roasted beans usually have a dry surface with very little oil, as the roasting process is not long enough to release lipids from within the bean.

Medium Roast

Medium roast, also referred to as City Roast or American Roast, is the most popular level of roasting in the coffee world. At this stage, the beans have undergone the first crack, releasing some oil, and the flavor starts to become more balanced.

Medium roasted coffee typically has caramel notes, with a balance between acidity and body. The original flavor characteristics of the coffee beans are still preserved but are enhanced by new layers of flavor from the roasting process. This is an ideal choice for those who want a cup of coffee that is diverse and rich in flavor.

Dark Roast

Dark roast, including levels such as Full City, Vienna, French, and Italian Roast, occurs when the beans undergo the second crack. Dark roasted coffee beans often have an oily surface, with a rich flavor featuring smoky and chocolate notes.

At this level, the original characteristics of the coffee beans are almost overshadowed by the new flavors from the roasting process. This is the perfect choice for those who love a strong, bold cup of coffee with a long-lasting aftertaste. However, if roasted too long, the coffee can become bitter and lose many of its nuanced flavors.