Roast Level

Roast level describes how long and at what temperature coffee beans are roasted, which dramatically affects flavor, acidity, body, and caffeine content. Light roasts are roasted for the shortest time, preserving origin characteristics, higher acidity, and more caffeine. They often taste fruity, floral, or tea-like. Medium roasts balance origin flavors with roast characteristics, offering more body and balanced acidity. Dark roasts are roasted longest, developing bold, smoky, chocolatey flavors with lower acidity and less caffeine. The roast level should match your brew method and taste preferences. Light roasts work well for pour-over and highlight origin flavors. Medium roasts are versatile. Dark roasts are traditional for espresso and work well in milk drinks. The roast level is determined by the roaster, not the origin, though some origins are traditionally roasted to certain levels.