When you’re standing in front of a wall of coffee bags—or scrolling through your favorite roaster’s website—it’s one of the first decisions you’ll make: light roast vs dark roast. But what exactly sets them apart? Is one stronger? More caffeinated? Better for specific brew methods?

At Goldberry Roasting Company, we craft both light and dark roasts with intention—each with its own story, character, and flavor. Whether you’re new to specialty coffee or looking to refine your palate, this guide will help you understand the key differences between light and dark roast coffee and how to find your perfect cup.

What Defines a Roast Level?

The roast level of coffee refers to how long and how hot the green coffee beans are roasted. This process transforms the beans’ physical and chemical structure—impacting flavor, aroma, body, and acidity.

• Light roasts are roasted for a shorter time and typically pulled before the “second crack.”

• Dark roasts are roasted longer and develop through or past the second crack, resulting in deeper color and more caramelized flavors.

Flavor Profile: Light Roast vs Dark Roast

☕ Light Roast: Bright, Complex, and Origin-Driven

Light roasts preserve the natural character of the bean, making them ideal for showcasing single origin coffees. The shorter roasting time retains more of the bean’s original flavor, acidity, and nuance.

Typical flavor notes:

• Citrus, berry, floral

• Tea-like or crisp body

• Higher perceived acidity

• Lighter color and dry surface

Best for: Pour over, AeroPress, drip, and coffee drinkers who love clean, complex cups.

At Goldberry, our light roast Ethiopian or Rwandan offerings are perfect examples—bright, fruity, and full of life.

☕ Dark Roast: Bold, Smoky, and Comforting

Dark roasts are known for their deep, robust flavor and lower acidity. The extended roast time brings out caramelization, oils, and a heavy body. You’ll taste more of the roast itself and less of the bean’s origin characteristics.

Typical flavor notes:

• Chocolate, toasted nuts, spice

• Smoky or bittersweet tones

• Lower acidity

• Shiny, oily surface

Best for: French press, espresso, cold brew, and fans of strong, bold coffee with a rich mouthfeel.

Our Signature Espresso Blend is a great example of a dark roast that’s smooth, bold, and balanced.

Caffeine Content: Is There a Difference?

A common myth is that dark roasts have more caffeine because they taste stronger. In reality, light roasts tend to have slightly more caffeine by weight. However, the difference is minimal—and it depends on how you measure your coffee (by volume vs weight).

In short: choose based on flavor, not caffeine level.

Which Roast Is Right for You?

It depends on your preferences:

If you’re not sure, try a side-by-side tasting. Brew both a light and dark roast of the same origin and note the differences—it’s a fun, eye-opening experience.

The Goldberry Approach to Roast Levels

We believe each coffee should be roasted in a way that highlights its natural strengths. Our light roasts are crafted to showcase origin-specific clarity, while our dark roasts are carefully developed for richness without sacrificing balance.

Whether you love the bright complexity of a light roast or the bold smoothness of a dark roast, Goldberry Roasting Company offers something to match your taste.

Explore our full collection of roasts at goldberryroasting.com and find your perfect cup—no matter your roast preference.

Want to take your brewing even further? Check out our guide on Coffee Water Temperature: Why It Matters to unlock better flavor at home.