One of the most common questions we receive from customers is How strong is this coffee? The truth is, there's no single answer. Coffee strength isn't measured on a formalised scale, it's mostly subjective. A better way to describe coffee strength is by understanding its roast profile, which plays a major role in determining a coffee's flavour profile and perceived intensity.
Browse our coffee range here.
What determines a coffee roast profile?
Roasters can change several variables to achieve different roast profiles. The two most important roasting factors are roast time and coffee bean temperature (the end temperature of the bean makes the biggest difference to roast profile) , adjusting either of these can alter the coffee bean’s flavour, acidity and body.
Beans can easily be identified as being light, medium or dark roast based on the bean's colour. Roasters have a little tool that allows them to measure the roasted colour of the coffee.
What’s the difference between light, medium and dark roast?
Light roast: Roasted for the shortest time, beans are light brown in colour and retain the bean's origin characteristics. The result is high acidity, bright, complex flavours and a tea-like body. These coffees often have delicate floral or fruity notes.
Recommended brewing: Light roasts shine best with pour-over methods.
Medium roast: Beans are roasted slightly longer, resulting is a darker colour and smooth, full-bodied flavour. These coffee balance acidity with more toasted, caramel notes.
Recommended brewing: This is the most common roast and suitable for most brew methods.
Dark roast: Roasted for the longest time, resulting in a dark colour and bold, rich flavours. These coffees have low acidity, a heavy body and often dark chocolate or nutty notes.
Recommended brewing: Dark roasts are best for espresso-based methods and for those who prefer a bolder taste.
How to find the right coffee for you
When browsing our coffee selection, use our strength scale as a guide:
Strength 1-3 : Light Roast
Strength 4 : Medium Roast
Strength 5 : Dark Roast
Remember, there are lots of other factors that affect a coffee’s flavour profile. Try coffees from different origins, processing and roast profiles but also play around with different methods, ratios and recipes to find the perfect flavour for you.
Ready to find your perfect coffee? Browse our coffee range here.
