Roast level shapes the taste of coffee more than most other factors. Here is how to choose one for the office.
In most offices a medium roast works best – it is balanced, suits espresso and milk drinks, and most people think of it as plain good coffee. A light roast tastes fruitier and brighter, while a dark roast is more bitter and intense.
How the roast levels taste
- Light: bright acidity, fruity notes, lighter body.
- Medium: a balance of sweetness, acidity, and bitterness.
- Dark: bitterness, cocoa and roasted notes, full body.
Roast level and milk
In milk drinks, a darker roast cuts through the milk better. If the team mostly drinks cappuccinos and lattes, a darker roast is often the safer choice.
Roast level and equipment
Office machines and coffee vending machines (publisher's site) are usually set up for a specific coffee. Changing the roast may mean adjusting the grinder.
FAQ
Does dark roast have more caffeine? You should not assume so. Caffeine content depends on many factors, including the type of bean.
How do I find the roast level? Roasters usually state it on the bag, sometimes on a visual scale.