If you've ever wondered what sets a light roast apart from a dark roast, you're not alone. One of the most common questions we hear is, "Which roast should I choose?"
The answer depends on what you enjoy most. Here's a quick guide to help you find your next favorite cup.
Light Roast
Light roasts are roasted for the shortest amount of time, allowing more of the coffee bean's natural flavors to shine through. They're often brighter, smoother, and have a light finish with medium-high acidity and low bitterness.
Try: Caddell Mountain Light Roast, a blend of beans from Burundi, Ethiopia, and Nicaragua.
Medium Roast
Medium roasts strike a balance between the bright flavors of a light roast and the richer body of a dark roast. They're smooth, well-rounded, and easy to enjoy any time of day.
Try: 1863 Medium Roast, crafted from Nicaraguan and Ethiopian beans or our bestselling Evans Curve, a smooth medium roast made with Mexican and Guatemalan beans featuring notes of chocolate and caramel.
Dark Roast
Dark roasts spend more time in the roaster, creating a fuller body with bold, rich flavors and lower acidity. They tend to have a smooth finish with deeper chocolate and caramel notes.
Try: Nine Stops Dark Roast, made from beans sourced from Sumatra, Mexico, Burundi, and Nicaragua.
Which Roast Has the Most Caffeine?
Many people assume dark roast coffee has more caffeine because it has a stronger flavor, but that's actually a common misconception. Light roasts retain slightly more caffeine because they're roasted for less time. The difference is small, though, so choosing a roast based on the flavors you enjoy is usually the best approach.
Find Your Favorite
There's no right or wrong choice when it comes to coffee roasts. Whether you prefer the bright, smooth finish of a light roast, the balanced flavor of a medium roast, or the bold richness of a dark roast, Portland Coffee has a blend you'll love.
Stop by the shop or visit us online to find your next favorite roast.