Coffee bean roasting degree comparison table: comprehensive analysis of the characteristics of coffee beans at different roasting degrees

Coffee bean roasting degree comparison table: comprehensive analysis of the characteristics of coffee beans at different roasting degrees

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, and different roasting degrees can bring completely different flavors and tastes to coffee. In this article, we will take a deep look at the characteristics of coffee beans at different roasting degrees.

Light roast

Light roasting means that the coffee beans are processed just when they reach the first crack. This treatment retains most of the original flavor and acidity, and makes the taste fresh and bright. Lightly roasted coffee usually has floral and fruity aromas and lemon or grapefruit-like sourness. In addition, light roasting can also retain more vitamins and antioxidants because it is not exposed to too much high temperature.

Medium dark (city) roast

Medium-dark (city) roast refers to the stage where the coffee beans are processed after the first crack. This roasting level retains some of the original flavor, but also begins to produce more caramel compounds and bitterness. Medium-dark roasted coffee usually has a nutty aroma, chocolate or caramel sweetness, and moderate acidity. The taste is rich and balanced, suitable for most people.

Medium dark (French) roast

Medium-dark (French) roasting means that the coffee beans are processed until the end of the second crack. This treatment makes the oil appear on the surface of the coffee beans and brings a rich and strong flavor. Coffee roasted in medium depth usually has spicy, cocoa or woody aromas, as well as obvious bitterness and low acidity. The taste is rich and full, suitable for people who like strong flavors.

Dark (Italian) roast

Deep (Italian) roasting refers to the stage where coffee beans are processed after the second crack. This degree of roasting causes more oil to appear on the surface of the coffee beans, and brings a strong bitter and caramel compound flavor. Deeply roasted coffee usually has a strong cocoa, chocolate or charcoal aroma, as well as obvious bitterness and low acidity. The taste is rich and heavy, suitable for people who like strong bitter flavors.

Special treatment

In addition to the common roasting levels above, there are some special processing methods that can bring different characteristics to coffee beans. For example, Cold Brew is a method of mixing coarse powder with cold water and letting it sit for several hours to several days. This processing method produces low-acid, sweet and smooth coffee.

In summary, when choosing coffee, you should choose according to your personal taste preferences and your understanding of different flavor characteristics. Whether it is fresh and bright or rich and bitter, you can find coffee that suits your taste needs.