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Roast type: Light roast
The taste of coffee varies greatly not only depending on the origin and variety of the beans, but also on the degree of roasting. Light roast, in particular, is a roasting style that has been gaining particular attention in recent years. Characterized by a light and delicate taste that makes the most of the beans' natural flavor, and with its enjoyable and unique aroma, it is popular with many coffee lovers. The appeal of light roast is not simply a matter of taste preference; it also allows you to rediscover the profound depth of coffee as a beverage. In this article, we will take a closer look at the characteristics and appeal of light roast, as well as tips on how to drink it.
What is a light roast?
Light roasting is a roasting method in which heat is turned off at the early stage of roasting, leaving the beans with a relatively high moisture content and resulting in a light brown color. The roasting time is short, and the beans' acidity and fruitiness are prominent . Generally, the surface of the beans after roasting is matte and not much oil has seeped out.
Light roasting is very delicate, and if the heat is not applied properly, it can result in an under-ripe flavor, so it requires skill and experience. In particular, precise temperature control and timing are key to bringing out fruity and floral aromas. Also, carefully determining how much moisture is removed during the roasting process and how the beans have expanded are important processes in order to maximize flavor.
Taste characteristics
Light roast coffee has a refreshing acidity and a light mouthfeel . It has almost no bitterness and a bright fruity flavor. It goes particularly well with beans from Africa, such as Ethiopia and Kenya, and you can feel the aroma of berries and citrus flavors.
It has a rich aroma, and the gorgeous fragrance unique to light roasts rises the moment hot water is poured in. The aftertaste lingers after drinking, with a refreshing cool feeling. The bitterness from roasting is suppressed, so a major attraction is that you can directly enjoy the individuality of the beans themselves . Another characteristic of light roasts is that you can enjoy the balance of sourness and sweetness, and you can enjoy the change in flavor even after it has cooled.
A brewing method suitable for lightly roasted beans
The flavor of lightly roasted coffee beans can change dramatically depending on the extraction method. To bring out a lighter flavor, we recommend hand drip or French press . Hand drip, in particular, allows you to fine-tune the balance of acidity and the release of aroma by adjusting the water temperature and pouring method.
On the other hand, light roast coffee beans have a hard powder that makes it difficult for hot water to pass through, so using finely ground coffee beans and brewing at a slightly higher temperature (around 93°C) will bring out the flavor. Also, by brewing for a slightly longer time, you can more clearly experience the delicate nuances of the beans.
Recommended extraction method:
Whichever method you use, allowing enough time for the coffee to steep will allow you to enjoy a richer aroma and flavor. Finding the right equipment for you is also one step towards fully enjoying the appeal of light roast coffee.
Scenes that highlight light roasts
Light roast coffee, with its bright flavor and layered aroma, is perfect for special occasions and relaxed moods. For example, we recommend a cup in the quiet of the morning, while reading, or as a refreshing drink in the afternoon.
Also, because of its light texture, pairing it with cheesecake or fruit-based sweets brings out the flavors of both, creating a richer taste experience . It's also great for holiday brunches and is perfect for enjoying with meals. It also pairs well with lighter dishes like snacks and salads, leaving you with a refreshing aftertaste.
To enjoy the charm of light roast coffee even more
The flavor of light roast coffee varies greatly depending on the beans, so you can experience its appeal even more by comparing different types. For example, even if they are both light roasts, Ethiopian and Colombian coffees can have completely different flavors.
In some cases, the flavor will be more stable and delicious if you let the beans sit for a few days to let the gases escape rather than drinking them immediately after roasting. You should also be careful about storing the beans. Storing them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place will help preserve the aroma and flavor .
For those who want a deeper taste, we also recommend coffee cupping (tasting). Comparing multiple light roast beans will broaden your enjoyment of learning about the differences between them and your own preferences. It's also important to find your own best brewing method by adjusting the brewing equipment, grind size, and water temperature. Light roast is truly a coffee that is full of the joy of exploration.
summary
Light roast coffee is an appealing roasting style that allows you to directly experience the original characteristics of the beans. Its light, acidic taste, vibrant aroma, and easy drinking make it a new discovery for many people .
To enjoy light roasts, proper brewing, storage, and bean selection are important. Why not try incorporating the rich flavor of light roasts into your daily cup of coffee? Light roasts bring a little change and great satisfaction to your daily coffee time, and they will bring a new perspective to your coffee experience.
