Light Roast vs Dark Roast Coffee: How to Find the Roast That’s Right for You

Light Roast vs Dark Roast Coffee: How to Find the Roast That’s Right for You

At Small Batch Coffee Roasters our roastery team is often quizzed about light roast vs dark roast coffee and which option is better. As an independent speciality coffee roaster our honest answer is always the same. It comes down to personal taste. Coffee is wonderfully subjective and the best cup is the one you enjoy drinking.

Light roast coffees are roasted to preserve the natural character of the bean. This style often highlights where the coffee comes from, showcasing flavours like citrus, berries, stone fruit or florals. You may notice a brighter acidity and a lighter body, making light roasts especially popular for filter brewing. For those who love clarity, complexity and discovering the story of a coffee’s origin, light roast coffee can be a real joy.

Dark roast coffees spend longer in the roaster, allowing richer and more developed flavours to shine. Think notes of chocolate, caramel, toasted nuts and spice, with a fuller body and lower perceived acidity. Dark roasts are often favoured for espresso and milk based drinks, where their boldness holds its own and creates a comforting, familiar cup.

When it comes to light roast vs dark roast coffee there is no right or wrong choice and many people enjoy both depending on the moment, the brew method or even the season. The best way to discover what you love is to taste widely and experiment.

Our Global Connoisseur Set is ideal for exploring a range of coffees and roast styles from around the world, while our Small Batch Roasters Blend Set offers balanced and versatile options for everyday brewing. If you would like a little guidance, our coffee quiz is a great way to narrow down your preferences and better understand light roast vs dark roast coffee in your own cup.