A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding Coffee Roast Levels

Ever wondered what makes a light roast different from a dark roast? The answer lies in the roasting process, where experienced hands take green coffee beans and carefully develop flavors in a special machine, transforming it into the aromatic, flavorful beans we know and love. At Durango Joes Coffee, we offer expertly roasted coffee tailored to every taste. Here’s your guide to understanding roasts from the light, fruit forward single origins to the darkest blends —and finding the perfect cup for you.

Photo of the first Durango Joes on College Drive

Light Roasts: Bright, Floral, and Fruity

Light roasts are roasted for the shortest time, developing the bean’s natural flavors. If you enjoy a bright and complex cup, this roast is for you.

• Common Flavor Profiles : Citrus notes, often fruit forward, with bright characteristics and a higher acidity.

• Perfect Pairing: A morning pick-me-up with gluten-free vegan pumpkin bread or a fresh blueberry scone.

Try at Durango Joes: Our Guatemala Roast—a vibrant coffee with floral undertones and a hazelnut glow. It's a great way to start your day feeling refreshed and energized.

Medium Roasts: Balanced and Smooth

Medium roasts balance the bean's natural flavors with the richness of the roasting process. They offer a middle ground for coffee enthusiasts.

• Common Flavor Profile: A good medium roast is all about balance and their tasting notes can vary from more honey-like to chocolatey and warm depending on roast profiles and the coffee’s origin.

• Perfect Pairing: Complements our Bacon Delight Burrito or Sausage Biscuit Sandwich.

Try at Durango Joes: Our Mosaic Blend—a bright, balanced, and fruity coffee that pairs well with your favorite breakfast or lunch item.

Dark Roasts: Bold and Intense

Dark roasts are roasted the longest, creating a deep and smoky flavor profile. If you love a strong, bold coffee, look no further.

• Common Flavor Profile: Robust, smoky, with a hint of chocolate bitterness. Almost no acidic bite.

• Perfect Pairing: Enjoy alongside a warm Ham and Gruyere Croissant or decadent Chocolate Chip Cookie.

Try at Durango Joes:The Red Mountain Roast, perfect for those who prefer their coffee rich and full-bodied.

The Science Behind Roasting: How It Shapes Flavor

The roasting process is what transforms green coffee beans into aromatic, flavorful coffee. Here’s how:

1. Light Roast: The beans are roasted just past the first crack, keeping their original flavors intact.

2. Medium Roast: Roasted a little longer for a balanced blend of bean and roast flavors.

3. Dark Roast: Extended roasting caramelizes the sugars, creating deep, bold flavors.

Within this time frame an experienced and skilled roaster will also adjust factors like temperature and airflow to accentuate flavors found naturally in the green coffee.

Ethical Sourcing: Coffee with a Conscience

At Durango Joes, every cup of coffee reflects our commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing. We partner with farmers to ensure our beans are fair-trade and responsibly grown, so you can feel good about every sip.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Roast?

Whether you’re drawn to the brightness of a light roast, the balance of a medium roast, or the boldness of a dark roast, Durango Joes has something for you. Our baristas are here to guide you through your coffee journey. Plus, with our new mobile app, you can easily explore roast options, place an order, and start earning rewards.

A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding Coffee Roast Levels