Light, Medium, or Strong? Understanding Coffee Roasts
If you've ever stood in front of a shelf of coffee bags wondering what the difference is between light, medium, and strong roasts—you're not alone.
The truth is, when people say "strong coffee," they often mean different things. So, let's break it down and clear the confusion between roast level, flavour, and caffeine content.
First Things First: What Is a Coffee Roast?
Coffee beans start out green. Roasting is the process that turns them brown and brings out the flavours we know and love. The roast level—light, medium, or dark (often called strong)—changes how the coffee tastes, smells, and even how much caffeine it contains.
Light Roast: Bright & Fruity
- Colour: Light brown
- Flavour Profile: Fruity, floral, and acidic
- Caffeine Content: Higher than dark roast (yes, really!)
- Roast Time: Shorter, so the original bean flavours shine through
Perfect for: Those who like a more delicate, tea-like coffee with vibrant notes—think citrus, berries, or jasmine.
"Light roast doesn't mean weak—just subtle and complex."
Medium Roast: Balanced & Smooth
- Colour: Medium brown
- Flavour Profile: Chocolatey, nutty, rounded
- Caffeine Content: Slightly less than light roast, but not by much
- Roast Time: Medium, striking a balance between origin flavours and roast character
Perfect for: Everyday coffee drinkers who want a rich, smooth cup without the bitterness.
"This is the crowd-pleaser—balanced, mellow, and oh-so-sippable."
Dark Roast: Bold & "Strong"
- Colour: Deep brown, sometimes almost black
- Flavour Profile: Smoky, bold, bitter-sweet
- Caffeine Content: Lower than light roast (due to longer roasting time)
- Roast Time: Longest, which mutes bean origin flavours and enhances roast notes
Perfect for: Fans of espresso, lattes, and coffees with a robust, toasty kick.
"When people say 'strong coffee,' they're usually talking about this one's bold flavour—not caffeine."
Wait—So Dark Roasts Have Less Caffeine?
Yes! It's one of the biggest myths in coffee. The longer beans roast, the more moisture and caffeine they lose. So while dark roasts taste "stronger," light roasts actually pack more caffeine per bean.
That said, caffeine content also depends on how you brew it. A double espresso from dark roast beans can still give you a good kick!
How to Choose the Right Roast for You
✨ If you love bright, clean flavours: Try a light roast. ✨ If you want balance and sweetness: Go for a medium roast. ✨ If you crave bold, intense flavour: A dark roast is your best bet.
At Cwtch Coffee Co., we carefully roast our beans to bring out the best in each profile—whether that's a smooth, nutty medium or a deep, chocolatey dark.
Ready to Explore?
Browse our coffee collection to find your perfect roast match—or try all three in our Roast Explorer Bundle. Your taste buds will thank you.
Bonus Tip: Brewing methods can change the game, too. A light roast in a pour-over will taste totally different from the same beans brewed in a French press. Want a guide? Let us know—we'll write it!