Types of Coffee Roasts: Everything You Need to Know Before Choosing Your Favorite Coffee

Have you ever wondered why some coffee tastes bitter, while others feel softer or even citrusy? Much of the answer lies in one key process: coffee roasting.

In this article, we’ll break down the main types of coffee roast, how they influence flavor, and how to identify the perfect roast for your taste. Whether you’re just getting started or already love your daily cup, this guide will help you understand the roasting process behind every sip.

What is coffee roasting?

Before diving into the types of coffee roasts, it's important to understand what roasting means. Coffee roasting is the process that transforms raw, green coffee beans into the aromatic brown beans we brew. During roasting, chemical and physical changes occur, affecting:

• Aroma

• Flavor

• Acidity

• Body (texture)

The temperature, time, and technique used during roasting determine how the beans will develop—and ultimately how your coffee will taste.

According to the National Coffee Association (NCA), roasting temperatures typically range from 180 °C to 240 °C (356 °F to 464 °F), and the process can take between 8 to 20 minutes depending on the roast type.

Main types of coffee roasts

There are many variations and roast profiles, but generally speaking, the types of coffee roast are classified into three or four main categories: light, medium, medium-dark, and dark.

Let’s explore each one.

1. Light Roast

• Color: Light brown

• Surface: Dry (no oils visible)

• Flavor profile: Bright, acidic, with fruity or floral notes

• Caffeine level: Slightly higher than darker roasts

Light roasts preserve most of the bean’s natural flavors, often highlighting the origin of the coffee (like Colombian, Ethiopian, or Kenyan beans). These roasts are ideal for pour-over, Chemex, or drip methods.

Also called: Cinnamon Roast, Half City Roast

According to Perfect Daily Grind, light roasts are increasingly popular among specialty coffee lovers due to their complexity and clarity in flavor.

2. Medium Roast

• Color: Medium brown

• Surface: Still dry, sometimes slight sheen

• Flavor profile: Balanced, sweeter, with mild acidity

• Caffeine level: Moderate

Medium roasts are the most common type, especially in North America. They offer a balanced flavor between the bean’s origin and the roast itself.

Also called: American Roast, City Roast

3. Medium-Dark Roast

• Color: Rich brown

• Surface: Slightly oily

• Flavor profile: Chocolatey, nutty, with a heavier body

• Caffeine level: Slightly lower than light roasts

This roast level starts to develop the rich, bold flavors associated with classic coffee drinks. Ideal for espresso, French press, or moka pot.

Also called: Full City Roast

4. Dark Roast

• Color: Dark brown to nearly black

• Surface: Oily

• Flavor profile: Smoky, roasted, low acidity

• Caffeine level: Lower (but still energizing!)

Dark roasts dominate in many espresso-based drinks and are known for their intense, sometimes bitter profile. They can overpower the original flavor of the bean but offer a comforting, strong cup.

Also called: Italian Roast, French Roast, Espresso Roast

According to Coffee Affection, dark roasts are often preferred in Europe and Latin America due to their bold and consistent flavor.

How to choose the right type of coffee roast

Choosing between the different types of coffee roasts depends on your taste and preparation method:

It’s also worth noting that brewing methods can influence how roasts express their flavors. For example, espresso tends to highlight darker roast characteristics, while filter coffee is better suited to light and medium roasts.

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