Greenhaus’ Guide to Coffee Beans & Roasts
Coffee is more than just a morning pick-me-up—it’s an experience. The roast level and bean type you choose can make all the difference in flavor, aroma, and overall enjoyment. Whether you're a seasoned coffee enthusiast or just getting into specialty coffee, understanding different roasts and beans will help you discover your perfect cup.
Coffee Roasts Explained
Coffee beans undergo a roasting process that shapes their color, flavor, and acidity. Here’s a simple breakdown of the most common roast levels:
Light Roast
What it looks like: Light brown with no oily sheen
What it tastes like: Bright, fruity, and acidic with floral or citrusy notes
Caffeine Kick: Higher than darker roasts since it’s roasted for less time
Best Ways to Brew: Pour-over, Aeropress, or drip coffee for a crisp, clean taste
Medium Roast
What it looks like: Rich brown with a balanced profile
What it tastes like: Smooth, well-rounded, with hints of caramel and nuts
Caffeine Kick: A middle ground—balanced and satisfying
Best Ways to Brew: Drip coffee, French press, or espresso for a full-bodied experience
Dark Roast
What it looks like: Dark brown to nearly black, often with an oily surface
What it tastes like: Bold, smoky, chocolatey, and sometimes slightly bitter
Caffeine Kick: Lower than light roasts, but packed with deep, rich flavors
Best Ways to Brew: Espresso, French press, or a Moka pot for a strong, intense cup
Meet the Coffee Beans
Not all coffee beans are the same. Here are the four main types and what makes each special:
Arabica
Taste: Smooth, sweet, slightly acidic with floral and fruity notes
Where it grows: High-altitude farms in Latin America
Best for: Specialty coffee lovers who appreciate nuanced flavors
Robusta
Taste: Strong, earthy, with chocolatey and slightly bitter notes
Where it grows: Lower-altitude farms in Africa and Asia
Best for: Espresso blends and anyone who loves a bold, high-caffeine kick
Liberica
Taste: Unique, smoky, and floral with a woody touch
Where it grows: Mostly found in the Philippines and Malaysia
Best for: Adventurous coffee drinkers looking for something rare
Excelsa
Taste: Tart, fruity, and complex with a light body
Where it grows: Southeast Asia
Best for: Blends that need a unique, tangy twist
Find Your Perfect Brew
Your ideal coffee comes down to personal preference. Love a bright and floral cup? Try a light roast Arabica. Prefer something rich and bold? A dark roast Robusta or espresso blend might be just what you need.
At The Greenhaus Coffee, Co., we’ve curated a selection of premium beans to help you craft the perfect brew. Check out our online shop and start exploring!
