The differences between light, medium, and dark roast coffee beans

Dear Francis
3 min readMay 10, 2023

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One of the most popularly consumed drinks around the world is coffee. Its aroma and taste vary greatly depending on the type of coffee bean and the roast. To roast coffee is to heat raw, unroasted coffee beans in order to develop and enhance their distinctive flavors and aromas. There exist three primary categories of roasted coffee beans: light, medium, and dark. In this blog, we will explore the differences between these roasts and how they affect the flavor profile of Dear Francis coffee.

Light Roast Coffee

Light roast coffee beans are roasted for the shortest amount of time, usually around 5 to 7 minutes. The beans are heated to an internal temperature of around 356°F (180°C), which causes them to crack and expand. Light roast coffee beans have a light brown color and a dry surface. They have a high acidity and a delicate flavor with a fruity or floral aroma. Light roast coffee is often described as having a bright, lively taste with a clean finish.

Dear Francis’s light roast coffee is a blend of beans from Ethiopia and Colombia. It has a bright and fruity flavor with notes of blueberry, raspberry, and a hint of chocolate. It has a high acidity and a light body, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a more delicate and complex flavor profile.

Medium Roast Coffee

Medium roast coffee beans are roasted for a longer period of time than light roast beans, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. The beans are heated to an internal temperature of around 410°F (210°C), which causes them to crack and expand. Medium roast coffee beans have a medium brown color and a smooth surface. They have a balanced acidity and a fuller body than light roast coffee. Medium roast coffee is often described as having a caramel-like sweetness with a slight acidity and a nutty finish.

Dear Francis’s medium roast coffee is a blend of beans from Brazil and Colombia. It has a smooth and well-rounded flavor with notes of chocolate, hazelnut, and a hint of citrus. It has a medium acidity and a medium body, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a balanced and flavorful cup of coffee.

Dark Roast Coffee

Dark roast coffee beans are roasted for the longest period of time, usually around 12 to 15 minutes. The beans are heated to an internal temperature of around 464°F (240°C), which causes them to crack and release oils. Dark roast coffee beans have a dark brown color and a shiny surface. They have a low acidity and a full-bodied, robust flavor with a smoky, caramelized taste. Dark roast coffee is often described as having a bittersweet flavor with a long, lingering finish.

Dear Francis’s dark roast coffee is a blend of beans from Guatemala and Sumatra. It has a bold and rich flavor with notes of dark chocolate, caramel, and a hint of smokiness. It has a low acidity and a full body, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a strong and intense cup of coffee.

Choosing the Right Roast

The roast level of coffee beans can greatly affect the flavor profile of the final cup of coffee. The key is to choose a roast level that complements your personal taste preferences. If you prefer a delicate and complex flavor, then a light roast coffee may be the best choice for you. If you prefer a balanced and flavorful cup of coffee, then a medium roast coffee may be the way to go. And if you prefer a strong and intense cup of coffee, then a dark roast coffee may be your preferred choice.

It’s also worth noting that the roast level can affect the caffeine content of the coffee. Contrary to popular belief, dark roast coffee does not necessarily have more caffeine than light roast coffee. In fact, the longer the beans are roasted, the more caffeine they lose.

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Dear Francis
Dear Francis

Written by Dear Francis

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Shop for premium coffee blends and artisanal roasts at Dear Francis. Indulge in rich, bold flavors and exceptional quality. Order now and taste the difference!

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