Light, medium or dark roast: what's the difference
The same coffee bean can taste fruity and bright or bittersweet and chocolatey, depending on how it's roasted. Here's how to read the bag and choose a coffee you'll love.
What happens in the roaster
Green coffee beans have almost no aroma. In the drum they dry, turn yellow, then start to brown as their sugars caramelize. At some point you hear "first crack", and from there every extra minute changes the taste. The longer the roast, the more the flavors of the origin (fruit, flowers) give way to the flavors of roasting itself (chocolate, caramel, bitterness).
Light roast
Keeps the character of where the coffee was grown: fruit, citrus, flowers and a pleasant acidity. Great for filter, pour-over and AeroPress. Our Ethiopia Guji, for example, is a light roast, and our Ethiopia Yirgacheffe and Kenya are light-medium.
Medium roast
A balance of sweetness, body and acidity. Works with almost any method, from French press to moka pot. Try Guatemala or our House Blend.
Dark roast
Full body, chocolate and nut flavors and a gentle bitterness. Stands up to milk and suits espresso, moka pot and Turkish coffee. Try Blend 1983 (dark plus), Mexico or Peru.
How to choose
- Drink it black and like interesting flavors? Try a light roast.
- Drink it with milk? Medium to dark.
- Not sure? Our short quiz will recommend a coffee by taste.
Frequently asked questions
Which roast has more caffeine?
The difference is very small. A dark roast tastes 'stronger' because of its bitterness, but the caffeine is nearly the same.
Which roast is best for espresso?
A medium to dark roast gives a classic, sweet, full espresso that stands up to milk. If you like a fruity espresso, try a light-medium roast.
Does a dark roast mean better coffee?
No. Roast level is a style, not a measure of quality. A light roast highlights the origin, a dark roast highlights the flavours of roasting.
How can I tell a coffee's roast level?
Each coffee's roast level is listed in its description on our site, together with its tasting notes and recommended grind.
Freshly roasted coffee, delivered
Whole beans, or ground especially for you after you order, at the grind that suits your method. Delivery across Israel, free over ₪250.
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