Roast level changes flavor more than origin does. Here’s how to read the labels.
| Roast | Look | Flavor | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | Light brown, dry surface | Bright, fruity, floral, tea-like; highest acidity | Pour over, drip |
| Medium | Rich brown, dry surface | Balanced sweetness, caramel, chocolate, mild fruit | Everything — the crowd-pleaser |
| Medium-dark | Dark brown, hints of oil | Bittersweet chocolate, roasted nuts, spice | Espresso, milk drinks |
| Dark | Nearly black, oily surface | Smoky, bold, low acidity; roast flavor dominates origin | French press, traditional espresso |
Myth check: dark roast does not have more caffeine. By weight, light and dark roasts are nearly identical — by the scoop, light roast actually has slightly more.