At Stash Coffee, we believe that the perfect cup of coffee begins with understanding the nuances of roast levels. From light to dark, each roast unlocks unique flavours and aromas, offering a diverse coffee experience. To help you navigate these choices, we introduce the Agtron colour scale, a key tool in the coffee industry for measuring roast levels.
Understanding the Agtron Colour Scale
The Agtron colour scale ranges from 0 to 100, where lower numbers indicate darker roasts and higher numbers represent lighter roasts. This scale allows roasters to achieve precise and consistent results, ensuring that each batch of coffee meets the desired roast profile.
Light (Agtron Scale: 80-90)
Light roasts are known for their bright acidity and floral, fruity notes. These roasts preserve the original characteristics of the coffee beans, making them a favourite among those who appreciate nuanced flavours. At Stash Coffee, we specialise in light and light medium roasts, embracing the 3rd wave specialty coffee movement that focuses on showcasing the unique qualities of each origin. This is especially the case with our single origin coffees, of which we roast to this light degree to highlight the the natural terroir
Light Medium (Agtron Scale: 70-79)
Light medium roasts strike a balance between the vibrant flavours of light roasts and the deeper, caramelised notes of medium roasts. They offer a more complex flavour profile while still highlighting the bean’s natural attributes. Our meticulous roasting process ensures that these roasts are perfectly crafted to bring out the best in every cup.
Medium (Agtron Scale: 62-69)
Medium roasts have a well-rounded flavour with a balance of acidity and body. The beans undergo a longer roasting process, resulting in richer, sweeter notes with hints of chocolate and nuts. While we primarily focus on lighter roasts, we occasionally feature medium roasts for those seeking a more traditional coffee experience.
Specialty Dark Roasts (Agtron Scale: 55-61)
Specialty dark roasts are characterised by their bold flavours and low acidity, achieved through a careful roasting process that brings out complex, bittersweet notes without overpowering the bean’s natural qualities. These roasts offer a refined dark roast experience, perfect for those who enjoy a deeper, more intense flavour profile.
Dark Roasts (Agtron Scale: 50-54)
Traditional dark roasts have robust, smoky flavours with a low acidity. The extended roasting time creates a strong, bittersweet taste that often overshadows the original characteristics of the beans. Although not our primary focus, we appreciate the complexity and boldness that dark roasts bring to the table.
At Stash Coffee, our dedication to light and light medium roasts ensures that each cup you enjoy is a celebration of the coffee bean’s inherent flavours. Join us in exploring the world of specialty coffee, one roast at a time.
Stay Brewed and Stay Curious!
For more insights into our roasting techniques and to discover your perfect roast, visit our website or drop by one of our cafes. Your next favourite coffee awaits!