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10 Best Medium Roast Coffee: A Perfect Balance

Nov 26, 2023 • Amélie Bigras

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Coffee is more than just a beverage; it's a ritual, a moment of solace, and an experience to savor. Among the myriad of options available, medium roast coffee stands out for its balanced flavor and versatility. In this article, we'll explore the allure of medium roast coffee, its distinct flavor profile, brewing methods, pairing suggestions, and the benefits of choosing this roast level. Let's dive in!

Products reviewed in more detail

Spirit Animal - Parainema Cup of Excellence 2022

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4.9 out of 5 • Buy it for $18 at Spirit Animal • Price last checked Jun 29, 2023

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4.9 out of 5 • No price available, check stock on Spirit Animal • Price last checked Jun 29, 2023

Spirit Animal - Parainema Cup of Excellence 2022Spirit Animal - Parainema Cup of Excellence 2022

Features

The Spirit Animal - Parainema Cup of Excellence 2022 is truly a remarkable coffee that lives up to its prestigious title. From the moment you take your first sip, you are greeted with an explosion of flavors. The tropical fruit notes transport you to lush, exotic landscapes, while the subtle floral undertones add a delightful touch. The hint of caramel provides a pleasant sweetness that rounds off the flavor profile. The quality of this coffee is evident in every sip, delivering a truly exceptional experience.

Spirit Animal's commitment to sustainability is commendable, ensuring that each cup supports ethical and environmentally responsible practices. The traceability and transparency of the coffee's origin add an extra layer of appreciation and connection to the farmers and their dedication to producing outstanding coffee.

The only potential drawback is the limited availability of this Cup of Excellence coffee, which might make it a bit challenging to get your hands on. However, for coffee enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary coffee experience, the Spirit Animal - Parainema Cup of Excellence 2022 is well worth the effort and investment.

Pros

  • Exceptional Quality
  • Unique Flavor Profile
  • Sustainability Commitment
  • Traceability and Transparency

Cons

  • Limited Availability

Nostalgia Coffee - Classic

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5 out of 5 • Buy it for $18 at Nostalgia • Price last checked Jul 11, 2023

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5 out of 5 • No price available, check stock on Nostalgia • Price last checked Jul 11, 2023

Nostalgia Coffee - ClassicNostalgia Coffee - Classic

Features

Nostalgia Classic is a medium roast coffee offered by Nostalgia Coffee Roasters. It is a classic blend with a smooth and balanced flavor profile. The coffee exhibits medium body, pleasant acidity, and notes of caramel, chocolate, or other nuanced flavors.

Nostalgia Classic is a thoughtfully crafted blend inspired by classic diner coffee. It captures the essence of 20th-century American culture and offers a delightful flavor experience. This blend combines two exceptional coffees that harmoniously create a sweet, balanced, and slightly toasty cup of coffee. It is made with 100% direct relationship coffee, ensuring fair compensation for our origin partners. By brewing Nostalgia Classic, you will contribute to a sustainable and mutually beneficial coffee experience.

Pros

  • Amazing flavors
  • Sustainable
  • Fair-Trade
  • Perfect for Pour-Over

Cons

  • Not available on Amazon yet

Art de Vivre

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4.7 out of 5 • Buy it for $25 at Art de Vivre • Price last checked Jun 09, 2023

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4.7 out of 5 • No price available, check stock on Art de Vivre • Price last checked Jun 09, 2023

Art de VivreArt de Vivre

Features

Art de Vivre was born out of a love for Vietnamese coffee. The brand was launched to address the shortage of authentic Vietnamese coffee outside Vietnam. The brand specializes in the highest quality Arabica and Robusta coffee beans sourced from the Son La province, in a mountainous area, north of Hanoi. 

The US-based brand exclusively sells single-origin coffee grown at altitudes of 3900 feet to produce a distinctive floral, woody, and chocolatey flavor profile. The brand works directly with small-scale farmers of ethnic minorities who have been growing coffee for generations. Discover Vietnamese coffee with Art de Vivre's Vietnamese Coffee Starter Kit.

Pros

  • A wide range of single-origin Vietnamese Arabica and robusta coffee
  • Available in whole and grounded roasted and unroasted beans
  • Focuses on a specific province in Vietnam

Cons

Clout Coffee - Columbian Single Origin

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4.6 out of 5 • Buy it for $18 at Clout • Price last checked Jun 09, 2023

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4.6 out of 5 • No price available, check stock on Clout • Price last checked Jun 09, 2023

Clout Coffee - Columbian Single OriginClout Coffee - Columbian Single Origin

Features

  • Sells aged and unaged coffee
  • Offers a selection of bourbon, rye, whiskey, and rum barrel-aged coffee
  • Offers light, dark, and espresso blends

Clout Coffee sells barrel-aged whole and ground coffee beans along with single-serve K-cups, known as Clout pods. The brand offers a selection of light, dark, and espresso roasts aged in rum, rye, bourbon, and whiskey barrels. 

The coffee is typically soaked up in the barrel essence before in-house roasting in small batches. The Nebraska-based brand uses unique single-origin Colombia coffee that fuses impeccably well with the barrel essence for memorable flavor profiles. 

The boozy barrels produce just the right flavors to fuse well with the coffee's distinctive chocolate and vanilla notes for a smooth and full-bodied coffee. Don't know which flavor to go for? How about trying Clout Coffee's All Flavors Variety Sampler, featuring bourbon, rye, rum, and whiskey-aged coffee?

Pros

Cons

Volcanica - Geisha Coffee Costa Rica

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4.3 out of 5 • Buy it for $52 at Amazon • Price last checked May 02, 2024

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4.3 out of 5 • No price available, check stock on Amazon • Price last checked May 02, 2024

Volcanica - Geisha Coffee Costa RicaVolcanica - Geisha Coffee Costa Rica

Features

  • 100% Pure Geisha Coffee from Costa Rica
  • Rich chocolate notes
  • Medium roasted whole beans
  • 30% less caffeine than other coffees

Geisha Coffee from Costa Rica is a highly prized varietal characterized by a soft, delicate profile and quietly complex aromatics. It has gentle acidity, a medium body and a silky mouthfeel. Flavor is particularly rich chocolate, with a long, lingering finish. These medium roasted beans have a remarkable taste with a low caffeine content. They are fresh roasted and immediately packed and sealed to assure freshness. 100% Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed.

Pros

  • Highly prized varietal
  • Gentle acidity
  • Medium body
  • Silky mouthfeel
  • Long, lingering finish
  • Fresh roasted
  • Immediately packed and sealed to assure freshness
  • 100% Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed.

Cons

  • Limited supplies
  • Low caffeine content

Rwanda Medium Roast Coffee

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4.7 out of 5 • Buy it for $34 at Cooper's • Price last checked Jun 29, 2023

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4.7 out of 5 • No price available, check stock on Cooper's • Price last checked Jun 29, 2023

Rwanda Medium Roast CoffeeRwanda Medium Roast Coffee

Features

The unique small batch roasting process employed by Cooper's Cask brings out the best flavors in the Rwanda beans, resulting in a diverse flavor profile that is both rich and sweet. Each sip is a delightful journey through the complexities of the coffee, with hints of sweetness that tantalize the taste buds.

The single origin nature of the Rwanda beans adds to the appeal of this coffee. It allows coffee enthusiasts to experience the unique characteristics and flavors specific to Rwanda's coffee-growing region. The authenticity and quality shine through in every cup, creating a truly enjoyable coffee-drinking experience.

One aspect to consider is the potential limited availability of Rwanda coffee, especially if you prefer single origin beans. However, the exceptional taste and unique flavor profile make it worth the effort to seek out this special coffee.

If you're looking for a coffee that offers a sweet taste and a silky body, Cooper's Cask Coffee's Rwanda coffee is a fantastic choice. Its rich and sweet flavors, coupled with the unique small batch roasting process, create a coffee experience that is both satisfying and memorable. Start your day with the wonderful flavors of Rwanda coffee and indulge in its unique charms.

Pros

  • Sweet Taste
  • Silky Body
  • Diverse Flavor Profile
  • Single Origin

Cons

  • Limited Availability

Koa Coffee - Private Reserve 100% Ka'u Coffee

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4.7 out of 5 • Buy it for $33 at Koa Coffee • Price last checked Jun 29, 2023

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4.7 out of 5 • No price available, check stock on Koa Coffee • Price last checked Jun 29, 2023

Koa Coffee - Private Reserve 100% Ka'u CoffeeKoa Coffee - Private Reserve 100% Ka'u Coffee

Features

From the first sip, the coffee's syrupy mouthfeel envelops the palate, providing a luxurious and velvety texture. The low acidity of the Ka'u Private Reserve allows the flavors to shine through without overpowering the taste buds, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a smoother and more delicate coffee experience.

The aromas of citrus and jasmine further enhance the sensory journey, offering a refreshing and invigorating element to the coffee's profile. As the flavors unfold, hints of brown sugar and currant come forward, adding sweetness and complexity to each sip. The long spice finish lingers on the palate, leaving a satisfying and memorable aftertaste.

It's important to note that the Ka'u Private Reserve may have limited availability due to its specific origin and micro-climate. However, the opportunity to experience this unique Hawaiian coffee grown in one of the most distinctive coffee-growing regions in the country is well worth the effort.

If you're seeking a high-quality coffee with a syrupy mouthfeel, low acidity, and a complex flavor profile, the Ka'u Private Reserve is a perfect choice. Treat yourself to this exceptional Hawaiian coffee and immerse yourself in the flavors and aromas of the Ka'u region's unique micro-climate.

Pros

  • High Quality
  • Syrupy Mouthfeel
  • Low Acidity
  • Aromas of Citrus and Jasmine
  • Smooth and Delicate Flavor
  • Long Spice Finish

Cons

  • Limited Availability

Nguyen Coffee Supply - Moxy Arabica

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3.9 out of 5 • Buy it for $18 at Nguyen Coffee • Price last checked May 02, 2024

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3.9 out of 5 • No price available, check stock on Nguyen Coffee • Price last checked May 02, 2024

Nguyen Coffee Supply - Moxy ArabicaNguyen Coffee Supply - Moxy Arabica

Features

Our Moxy Arabica blend is super smooth and fruity without the high acidic sour coffee vibe. It is grown in Vietnam and roasted in Brooklyn using no additives, flavorings, or oils to allow the distinct flavor of the beans to shine. Our Moxy coffee beans are ground finely for brewing with a Vietnamese Phin filter and are also suitable for making espresso or cold brew, or using a French press. Grown in Vietnam, roasted in Brooklyn and partnered directly with 4th generation farmer in Vietnam’s Central Highlands.

Pros

  • Smooth & fruity coffee
  • No additives, flavorings, or oils used
  • 100% Arabica beans
  • Finley ground for brewing with a Vietnamese Phin filter

Cons

  • High acidic sour coffee vibe
  • Low caffeine content

Al Di La - Out of the Grey

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4.6 out of 5 • Buy it for $19 at Out of the Grey • Price last checked Jun 29, 2023

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4.6 out of 5 • No price available, check stock on Out of the Grey • Price last checked Jun 29, 2023

Al Di La - Out of the Grey Al Di La - Out of the Grey

Features

The snappy acidity adds a lively touch to the bold full body, creating a satisfying balance that awakens the taste buds.

The presence of black currant notes provides an exciting twist to the flavor profile, introducing a fruity and slightly tangy element that complements the overall profile. The dark medium roast level strikes a harmonious balance, capturing the rich flavors associated with dark roasts while preserving the nuanced characteristics of the beans.

It's worth noting that the Al Di La Coffee may be too strong for those who prefer milder or more delicate coffee flavors. However, for those seeking a bold and robust coffee experience, this blend delivers with its full-bodied character and lively acidity.

The only potential downside is the limited availability of this specific blend, as it depends on the availability of Tanzanian Pea Berry, Ethiopian Harrar, and Kenyan AA beans. Nevertheless, for those fortunate enough to find it, the Al Di La Coffee offers a captivating and memorable coffee experience that showcases the unique qualities of each origin.

Pros

  • Snappy Acidity
  • Bold Full Body
  • Black Currant Notes
  • Blend of Tanzanian Pea Berry, Ethiopian Harrar, and Kenyan AA
  • Dark Medium Roast

Cons

  • Strong Flavor Profile
  • Limited Availability

Nostalgia Coffee - Colombia Geisha Allium

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4.8 out of 5 • Buy it for $65 at Nostalgia • Price last checked Jul 11, 2023

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4.8 out of 5 • No price available, check stock on Nostalgia • Price last checked Jul 11, 2023

Nostalgia Coffee - Colombia Geisha AlliumNostalgia Coffee - Colombia Geisha Allium

Features

The Nostalgia - Colombia Geisha Allium is a coffee that captivates with its balanced and vibrant nature. Unlike its predecessors, the Baby Dragons and Sudan Rume, this Geisha Allium strikes an exceptional equilibrium. Resembling the stunning and colorful Allium plant that thrives in Colombia's high altitudes, this coffee's exquisite beauty is a result of meticulous care, a touch of fortune, the creativity of its producer, and the skill of its roaster.

The processing of this Geisha involved a hybrid washed method, beginning with the meticulous hand-picking of cherries at the peak of ripeness. Following the harvest, the cherries undergo a 48-hour fermentation period in anaerobic tanks, followed by de-pulping and another 96 hours of fermentation. After the second fermentation, the coffee is mechanically dried for 72 hours. This intricate process results in a meticulously crafted coffee, reminiscent of the uniqueness of each Allium plant found in the wild.

Pros

  • Balanced and vibrant
  • Unique processing method
  • Lively acidity
  • Butter-like mouthfeel
  • Floral hints and fruity pops

Cons

  • Limited availability
  • Higher price point

What is Medium Roast Coffee?

Coffee roasting is an art that transforms green coffee beans into the aromatic and flavorful beans we know and love. Medium roast is a roast level that falls between light and dark roasts. It is characterized by a medium-brown color and a flavor profile that strikes a balance between the brightness of light roasts and the deeper, smokier notes of dark roasts.

During the medium roasting process, coffee beans undergo heat treatment for a specific duration, allowing them to develop a moderate level of acidity, body, and aroma. This roast level brings out the natural flavors and nuances of the beans without overwhelming them with excessive roast characteristics.

The common names for medium roast coffee are : City roast, City+ Roast, Full City Roast. Medium roast coffee typically exhibits a well-rounded flavor profile with a pleasant combination of acidity, sweetness, and body. It often showcases notes of caramel, chocolate, nuts, and sometimes subtle fruity or floral undertones. The flavor complexity of medium roast coffee appeals to a wide range of coffee drinkers, from those who prefer milder flavors to those who seek a more pronounced taste.

One of the advantages of medium roast coffee is its versatility. It adapts well to various brewing methods, allowing coffee enthusiasts to enjoy it through different techniques such as drip brewing, pour-over, French press, and espresso. The medium roast level provides a balance between preserving the bean's natural characteristics and extracting desirable flavors during brewing.

Medium roast coffee is also a popular choice for those who want a balance between the brightness and acidity of light roasts and the richness and intensity of dark roasts. It offers a well-balanced cup with a smooth finish and a moderate caffeine content, making it suitable for both morning rituals and leisurely coffee breaks throughout the day.

Whether you prefer a classic cup of drip coffee, a nuanced pour-over, a bold French press, or the concentrated shot of espresso, medium roast coffee provides a versatile and enjoyable coffee-drinking experience. Its accessibility, balanced flavor profile, and adaptability to various brewing methods have contributed to its popularity among coffee lovers worldwide.

medium roast coffee beans and coffee leaves

Flavor Profile of Medium Roast Coffee

Medium roast coffee offers a delightful flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of coffee enthusiasts. It strikes a harmonious balance between the brightness of light roasts and the deeper, smokier notes of dark roasts. The result is a cup of coffee with medium acidity, moderate body, and a pleasant sweetness.

The flavors found in medium roast coffee can vary, but they often include hints of caramel, chocolate, nuts, and even fruit notes. These nuances create a complex and enjoyable coffee-drinking experience that can be savored sip after sip.

Brewing Methods for Medium Roast Coffee

One of the joys of medium roast coffee is its versatility when it comes to brewing methods. Whether you prefer a classic drip coffee maker, the precision of pour-over, the intensity of a French press, or the rich shot of espresso, medium roast coffee adapts beautifully to each method.

For a drip coffee maker, use a medium grind size to extract the optimal flavors. For pour-over enthusiasts, a slow and controlled pour helps enhance the nuances of the medium roast. French press lovers can enjoy a full-bodied cup by using a slightly coarser grind. And for espresso aficionados, medium roast beans provide a balanced and nuanced shot with a pleasing crema.

Experiment with different brewing methods to discover your preferred way of enjoying medium roast coffee.

Pairing Suggestions with Medium Roast Coffee

Medium roast coffee's well-rounded flavor profile makes it an excellent companion for a variety of food pairings. The balanced acidity and moderate sweetness create a versatile canvas that complements a range of flavors. Here are a few pairing suggestions to enhance your coffee-drinking experience:

  • Pastries and baked goods: Enjoy a medium roast coffee with a buttery croissant, a flaky danish, or a warm slice of coffee cake. The medium roast's caramel and nutty undertones harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of these treats.
  • Dark chocolate: Indulge in the perfect marriage of flavors by pairing medium roast coffee with a square of high-quality dark chocolate. The coffee's subtle acidity cuts through the richness of the chocolate, creating a delightful combination.
  • Fresh fruit: Savor a cup of medium roast coffee alongside a plate of fresh berries or citrus fruits. The coffee's mild sweetness complements the natural sweetness of the fruits, resulting in a refreshing and vibrant pairing.
  • Healthy Snacks
Medium roast coffee beans

Benefits of Medium Roast Coffee

Choosing medium roast coffee offers several advantages:

  1. Balanced flavor: Medium roast strikes a balance between the bright, acidic notes of light roasts and the bold, smoky tones of dark roasts. It delivers a well-rounded flavor that caters to a wide range of palates.
  2. Versatility: Medium roast coffee is versatile in terms of brewing methods, allowing you to enjoy it through various brewing techniques, from pour-over to French press to espresso.
  3. Accessibility: Medium roast coffee is often more approachable for those who are new to specialty coffee or prefer a milder taste. Its flavor profile appeals to both casual coffee drinkers and connoisseurs alike.
  4. Widely available: Medium roast coffee is readily available in most coffee shops and supermarkets, making it easy to find and enjoy wherever you are.

What Type of Brewing is Best with Medium Roasted Coffee Beans?

Medium roasted coffee beans offer a versatile flavor profile that complements various brewing methods. Here are some popular brewing methods that work particularly well with medium roasted coffee beans:

  1. Pour-over: Pour-over brewing, such as using a Hario V60 or Chemex, is an excellent choice for medium roasted beans. The pour-over method allows for precise control over the water flow and extraction, bringing out the nuanced flavors of the beans. The medium roast's balanced acidity and sweetness shine through in this brewing method.
  2. French press: French press brewing is another great option for medium roast coffee. The longer steeping time and immersion method extract the full-bodied richness and depth of flavors from the beans. The medium roast's subtle complexities and pleasant sweetness are enhanced, resulting in a full-bodied and flavorful cup.
  3. Aeropress: The Aeropress brewing method is known for its versatility and ability to produce a clean and well-extracted cup of coffee. It is an ideal choice for medium roasted beans as it allows for a range of brewing techniques, including standard, inverted, or even experimenting with various recipes. The medium roast's balanced flavors are highlighted with a smooth and clean finish.
  4. Drip brewing: Classic drip brewing methods, such as using a drip coffee maker or automatic coffee machine, can produce a consistently delicious cup of coffee with medium roasted beans. The medium roast's flavors are well-extracted through the slower brewing process, resulting in a well-rounded and approachable cup of coffee.
  5. Espresso-based drinks: Medium roasted beans can be used to create delightful espresso shots, which form the foundation of various espresso-based drinks like cappuccinos, lattes, and flat whites. The medium roast's moderate acidity, sweetness, and balanced flavors work harmoniously with the milk, producing a harmonious and enjoyable coffee experience.

Ultimately, the best brewing method for medium roasted coffee beans depends on personal preference. It's worth experimenting with different brewing techniques and ratios to discover the flavor profile that suits your taste preferences. The versatility of medium roast coffee allows for a delightful and enjoyable coffee experience, regardless of the brewing method chosen.

Medium roast coffee beans

Conclusion

Medium roast coffee offers a delightful and versatile coffee experience. Its balanced flavor profile, with its medium acidity, moderate body, and pleasant sweetness, makes it a popular choice among coffee lovers. Whether you prefer a classic drip brew, a pour-over, a French press, or espresso, medium roast coffee adapts beautifully to different brewing methods. Pair it with pastries, dark chocolate, or fresh fruit to elevate your coffee moments. The accessibility and wide availability of medium roast coffee further add to its appeal. So, the next time you're in search of a well-balanced and enjoyable cup of coffee, give medium roast a try and experience its allure for yourself.

Author

Amélie has a dual Bachelor of Biological Sciences and Literature. She wrote a Master's Thesis on the importance of blending scientific knowledge with the arts to create a healthier culture. She also has a Bachelor of Education and has been teaching Biology and Language Arts since 2016. She is happily addicted to coffee and constantly learning.

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