Understanding roast levels – Guide for coffee lovers

Understanding roast levels – Guide for coffee lovers

Roast levels are a crucial aspect of the coffee roasting process, influencing the flavor, aroma, and overall experience of the final cup.

As a coffee lover, it is essential to have a solid understanding of roast levels to meet the diverse preferences of you and your potential cooworkers or even customers. In this guide, we will explore the different roast levels that are commonly used everyday.

 

Main roast levels of coffee

 

  • Light roast coffee is known for its light brown color and high acidity. This roast level preserves the unique flavors and characteristics of the coffee beans, allowing the natural origin notes to shine through. Light roasts often exhibit vibrant and delicate flavors with hints of fruitiness and floral undertones.

 

  • Medium roast coffee strikes a balance between preserving the bean’s origin flavors and developing roast-induced characteristics. It features a medium brown color and a more balanced flavor profile. Medium roasts tend to have a moderate acidity, body, and aroma. The flavors are often a harmonious blend of sweetness, acidity, and sometimes chocolate or nutty undertones.

 

Moving towards darker shades, medium-dark roasts have a deeper brown color and may show some surface oils. These roasts offer a fuller body and lower acidity compared to lighter roasts. The flavor profile of medium-dark roasts leans towards caramelized sugars and rich, roasted flavors. They often feature chocolatey notes, slight bitterness, and a touch of smokiness.