Light, Medium, & Dark Roast Coffee: Understanding Coffee Roasting Levels

When it comes to coffee, the roasting level plays a crucial role in determining the flavour, aroma, and overall experience of your cup. However, the differences between light, medium, and dark roast coffee can be confusing. This guide will help you understand these roasting levels and explain how they affect the taste and aroma of our coffee, helping you make informed choices for your next brew.

The Coffee Roasting Process

Before diving into the specifics of roasting levels, it’s important to understand the basic coffee roasting process. Green coffee beans are heated in a roasting machine, where they undergo physical and chemical changes that develop their flavour and aroma. The length of time and temperature at which the beans are roasted determine their final roast level: light, medium, or dark roast coffee.

Light Roasts

Light roasts retain most of the single-origin coffee bean's original characteristics. They are known for their vibrant acidity and complex flavours, often showcasing the environment where the coffee was grown. You might taste notes of citrus, berries, or floral undertones. Because they are roasted for a shorter time, light roasts preserve more of the bean’s natural flavours.

Characteristics

• Colour: Light brown
• Surface: Dry, non-oily
• Flavour: Bright, acidic, fruity, and floral notes
• Aroma: Fresh, fragrant, often with hints of fruit and flowers

Want to explore the fruity, floral side of coffee? Browse our speciality coffee collection.

Medium Roasts

Medium roasts strike a balance between the bright acidity of light roasts and the rich, roasted flavours of dark roasts. They often have a sweet, caramel-like aroma and a balanced flavour profile that includes both the bean’s natural characteristics and the roast’s influence. Common flavour notes include nuts, chocolate, and subtle fruitiness.

Characteristics

• Colour: Medium brown
• Surface: Slightly oily
• Flavour: Balanced, with a mix of the original bean flavours and roast characteristics
• Aroma: Rich, sweet, often with hints of caramel and chocolate
• Body: Medium, smooth, and well-rounded

Dark Roasts

Dark roast coffee beans have a strong, bold flavour dominated by the roasting process. The original characteristics of the coffee bean are largely overshadowed by the roast’s influence. Dark roast coffee often features smoky, bittersweet, or even burnt notes, with a lower acidity and a fuller body. The oils brought to the surface during roasting contribute to a richer mouthfeel.

Characteristics

• Colour: Dark brown to almost black
• Surface: Oily sheen
• Flavour: Bold, rich, smoky, with roasted and bittersweet notes
• Aroma: Deep, intense, often with hints of cocoa or spice
• Body: Full, heavy, and robust

Looking for strong, full-bodied flavour? Discover our curated selection of dark roast coffee, including dark roast decaf coffee, bold blends, and single origins.

Understanding How Roasting Levels Affect Taste and Aroma

Whether you enjoy the bright acidity of a light roast, the balanced complexity of a medium roast, or the bold intensity of a dark roast coffee, each roast level offers a unique experience. You can even explore comparisons like light vs dark roast coffee or dark roast coffee vs medium roast to deepen your coffee knowledge.

To explore more and find your perfect cup, browse our full coffee collection today.