Light roast coffee beans are roasted for a shorter time at lower temperatures, usually stopping just after the "first crack." The result? A coffee that’s bright, crisp, and bursting with origin character. If you’re chasing complexity, clarity, and fruity notes, light roast might just become your new go-to.
We’ve put this guide together to explain exactly what light roast coffee is. From taste and caffeine levels to brewing methods, we’ve got you covered.
Quick Guide to Light Roast Coffee Beans
- Roasted shortly after the first crack for maximum flavour clarity
- Light brown beans with no oil on the surface
- High acidity and vibrant flavour profiles
- Typically tastes fruity, floral, and complex
- Best suited to pour over, filter, and drip brewing methods
- Highlights the origin and unique characteristics of the beans
What Does Light Roast Coffee Taste Like?
Light roast coffee beans are all about preserving the natural flavours of the bean. Rather than being masked by roast notes, the original terroir and processing method shine through.
You’ll often hear light roast coffee described as:
- Bright and citrusy
- Floral and tea-like
- Fruity (think berries, stone fruits, or apple)
- Delicate and layered
- High in acidity with a clean finish
If you’re someone who enjoys wine tasting or craft beer, you’ll probably love the complexity and nuance of a good light roast.
How Much Caffeine Is in Light Roast Coffee?
Light roast coffee typically contains a caffeine level very similar to medium and dark roasts when measured by weight. During roasting, beans lose moisture and weight, but caffeine remains relatively stable. However, because light roast beans are denser than darker roasts, if you measure your coffee by volume (for example, by scoop), you’ll likely get slightly more caffeine from a light roast compared to a darker roast. If you weigh your beans, the caffeine content is nearly identical across roast levels.
Best Brewing Methods for Light Roast Coffee
Light roast coffee beans shine brightest with slower, more controlled brewing methods. This lets you bring out all those delicate, high-acid flavours without over-extracting the bitterness.
Our favourite brewing methods:
- Pour Over (V60, Chemex, Kalita Wave): Maximises clarity and highlights origin flavours
- Drip or Batch Brew: Perfect for offices or home brewers wanting a clean, consistent cup
- Aeropress: Great for travel and experimentation with grind size, time, and temp
Need gear to brew light roast like a pro? Check out our range of brewing equipment.
Light Roast vs Medium Roast vs Dark Roast
Light Roast |
Medium Roast |
Dark Roast |
|
|---|---|---|---|
Roast Method |
Shorter roast times at lower end temperatures | Roasted to the first and second cracks in the beans | Longest roasting process; higher roast temperatures |
Taste, Description, and Flavour Notes |
Delicate, complex, crisp, fruity | Subtle and balanced, complex, slightly caramelised, versatile | Deep, robust, straightforward, bold, smoky, nutty, chocolaty |
Recommended Brewing Method |
Pour over or filter method | Pour over, filter method, or espressos | Espressos are where dark roast shines! |
Bean Appearance |
Light brown; no oil on surface | Medium brown colour; slightly oily sheen | Deep brown colour; distinctive oily sheen on surface |
Acidity |
Higher acidity | Moderately acidic | Lower acidity |
FAQs About Light Roast Coffee
What are the differences between light, medium and dark roast coffee?
It comes down to roast time, flavour, and appearance. Light roasts are high in acidity and preserve origin flavours. Medium roasts balance body and sweetness. Dark roasts are bold and low in acidity.
How much caffeine is in light roast coffee?
Roughly 95–120mg per 12 oz cup, similar to other roast levels, depending on origin and brew method.
Which coffee is stronger, light roast or dark roast?
Flavour-wise, dark roast tastes stronger.
Which is better, light roast or dark roast coffee?
That depends on your taste! Light roast = complexity and fruit. Dark roast = depth and boldness. Try both and see what you love.
Is light roast coffee healthier than dark roast coffee?
Light roasts retain more of the original antioxidants and polyphenols found in green beans.
Is light roast coffee more acidic than dark roast coffee?
Yes. It’s naturally higher in acidity which adds brightness and liveliness to your brew.
Is light roast coffee less bitter than dark roast coffee?
Usually, yes! Bitterness increases with roast level.
How does light roast coffee taste?
Expect vibrant acidity, fruity/floral notes, and a clean finish.
How do I roast light roast coffee beans?
Roast to just after the first crack. Avoid second crack to preserve delicate flavours.
How long should I rest light roast coffee after roasting?
Rest 5–7 days after roasting to allow carbon dioxide to degas and flavours to stabilise.
How do I grind light roast coffee beans?
Use a burr grinder and adjust based on brew method. For pour-over, aim for a medium-coarse grind.
How do I brew light roast coffee?
Use a precise method like V60 or Chemex. Start with a 1:15–1:17 coffee-to-water ratio and filtered water.
How can I tell if a coffee is light or dark roast?
Light roasts are dry, light brown, and smell fruity or floral. Dark roasts are shiny and oily with a smoky aroma.
Is Ethiopian coffee a light roast?
Not always—but Ethiopian coffees are often best enjoyed as a light roast to showcase their unique flavour notes.
Where can I buy light roast coffee?
Right here! Shop our locally-roasted light roast coffee beans, crafted in WA and 100% guaranteed to make your day.
Ready to Taste the Best Light Roast Coffee in Perth?
At Coffee Beans Perth, we live and breathe coffee, and light roast has a special place in our hearts. If you want a brew that’s bright, complex, and full of flavour, you’ve come to the right place.
Need a hand choosing the right beans or brewing gear? Drop us a message or explore our range of locally-roasted light roast coffee beans today!
Or if you want to learn more about the local roasters we stock, we've compiled a list of the best roasters in Perth to help make finding good coffee simple.