How to Choose the Right Coffee Roast: A Simple Guide to Finding Your Perfect Cup

Have you ever looked at a bag of coffee and wondered what all those words actually mean?

Light roast. Medium roast. Dark roast. Single origin. Blend. Tasting notes.

If you're thinking, “I just want a really good cup of coffee,” you're definitely not alone.

At Jitters, I believe coffee should be fun, not complicated. You don't need to be a coffee expert to figure out what you like. You just need to know a few basics and be willing to try something new.

So let's find your perfect cup.

First, What Does Roast Level Actually Mean?

One of the easiest places to start is with roast level. While every coffee is different, roast level can give you a pretty good idea of what to expect in your cup.

Light Roast:

Light-roasted coffees tend to let more of the coffee bean's original character shine through. Depending on where the coffee was grown, you may notice brighter, fruitier or more delicate flavors.  If you enjoy discovering different flavors in your coffee and don't necessarily want that traditional dark, "roasty" taste, a lighter roast can be a fun place to explore.

Medium Roast:

Medium roast is a great middle ground choice, and often a good starting point when you're not sure what you like.  These coffees typically balance the natural characteristics of the bean with some of the richer flavors that develop during roasting. Think smooth, balanced and easy to drink.  If you like a flavorful cup that isn't too light and isn't intensely dark, medium roast may be your sweet spot.

Dark Roast:

Dark roasts generally bring deeper, bolder roasted flavors to the cup. Depending on the coffee, you may notice flavors that remind you of dark chocolate, toasted nuts, caramel or smoky notes.  If you like your coffee rich and bold, especially if you add cream or enjoy a strong-tasting morning cup, you may find yourself reaching for darker roasts.

What About Single-Origin Coffee vs. Blends?

This sounds much more complicated than it actually is.

A single-origin coffee comes from a particular country, region or producer. Because of that, it's a great way to experience the distinctive characteristics coffee can develop depending on where it's grown.

That's why coffees from places like Mexico, Peru and Bali don't necessarily taste alike.

A blend, on the other hand, combines different coffees to create a particular flavor profile or balance. A good blend can bring together qualities like body, richness, sweetness and smoothness into one cup.

Neither one is “better.”  It's really only about what you enjoy.

Don't Let Tasting Notes Intimidate You

Here's something that confused me when I first started learning more about coffee:

If a coffee says it has notes of chocolate, berries or caramel, that doesn't necessarily mean someone added chocolate, berries or caramel to the beans.  Tasting notes are simply descriptions of flavors and aromas people may notice naturally in the coffee.

And you may not taste exactly what the bag says. That's okay!

Your perfect cup isn't determined by whether you can identify every tasting note. If you take a sip and think, “That's really good,” you've already learned something important about the kind of coffee you enjoy.

So…What Kind of Coffee Drinker Are You?

Here's an easier way to think about it.

If you enjoy coffee that is bright, interesting or a little fruity, start exploring lighter roasts and single-origin coffees.

If you prefer something smooth, balanced and easy to drink every morning, try a medium roast or balanced blend.

If your idea of a great cup is bold, rich and full-bodied, head toward the darker roasts and bolder blends.

And if you're thinking…“I have absolutely no idea.”

That's actually the fun part.  Trying different coffees side-by-side is one of the easiest ways to discover what you really like.

Your Coffee Doesn't Have to Stay Black

Finding a coffee you love is only the beginning.  One of my favorite things about coffee is how completely different that same cup can become with a little creativity.

At the Jitters trailer, I've spent years experimenting with flavors, homemade creamers, cold foams and unexpected combinations to turn a simple cup of coffee into something special.

And that's something I'm excited to start sharing here, too.

In upcoming posts, I'll show you ways to turn great coffee into coffee-shop-inspired drinks right in your own kitchen, including some ideas inspired by creations we've served on our Jitters trailer.  And here's the best part: you don't need an espresso machine or a kitchen full of expensive equipment.

Sometimes all you need is a good cup of coffee, a few simple ingredients and a little Jitters inspiration.

Still Can't Decide? Try a Few.

If you're still not sure which coffee sounds like your perfect cup, don't overthink it.

That's one of the reasons I especially love our Jitters Best Sellers Sample Pack. Instead of committing to one full bag, you can explore several different coffees and start discovering what you actually enjoy.

Enjoy trying them black, then try them with your favorite creamer. Brew the same amount each time and compare all the varieties.  You may be surprised by which one becomes your favorite.

Because at the end of the day, there isn't one “right” coffee.

There's just the coffee that's right for you.  

Ready to start tasting? Explore the Jitters Best Sellers Sample Pack →

Made with a little Jitters Joy ❤️