Medium-Dark Roast - botanical illustration showing roast characteristics

Medium-Dark Roast

Roast LevelArabicaMedium Caffeine

Medium-dark roasts reach 437-446F (225-230C), at or just into second crack. The beans begin to show oil on the surface. These roasts have richer, darker flavors with bittersweet chocolate and spice notes, lower acidity, and heavier body.

Understanding Medium-Dark Roast

Medium-dark roast reaches 225-230°C (437-446°F), at or near the beginning of second crack. Oils begin to appear on the bean surface.

Characteristics

  • Color: Rich dark brown
  • Surface: Some oil visible
  • Density: Lower than medium roast
  • Caffeine: Slightly lower than medium

Flavor Profile

At this level, roast character begins to dominate over origin. Expect bittersweet chocolate, caramel, toasted nuts, and a heavier, syrupy body. Acidity is significantly reduced. A pleasant bittersweet finish replaces the bright snap of lighter roasts.

Best For

  • Espresso - The bittersweet balance and heavy body make excellent shots
  • Milk drinks - Flavor punches through milk in lattes and cappuccinos
  • Moka pot - The intensity matches the concentrated brewing method

Did you know?

This roast level is sometimes called "Full City" or "Vienna" roast in traditional roasting terminology.

Related

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Medium-Dark Roast taste like?
Medium-Dark Roast is known for bittersweet, chocolate, spice, full body flavor notes. It has a ## understanding medium-dark roast medium-dark roast reaches 225-230°c (437-446°f), at or near the beginning of second crack. oils begin to appear on the bean surface. ## characteristics - **color**: rich dark brown - **surface**: some oil visible - **density**: lower than medium roast - **caffeine**: slightly lower than medium ## flavor profile at this level, roast character begins to dominate over origin. expect bittersweet chocolate, caramel, toasted nuts, and a heavier, syrupy body. acidity is significantly reduced. a pleasant bittersweet finish replaces the bright snap of lighter roasts. ## best for - **espresso** - the bittersweet balance and heavy body make excellent shots - **milk drinks** - flavor punches through milk in lattes and cappuccinos - **moka pot** - the intensity matches the concentrated brewing method body and medium caffeine content.
What is the best way to brew Medium-Dark Roast?
Medium-Dark Roast performs best with espresso, french press, moka pot. These methods complement the bean's natural characteristics and extract the most balanced flavor. Experiment with grind size and water temperature to dial in your preferred taste.
How much caffeine does Medium-Dark Roast have?
Medium-Dark Roast has moderate caffeine content, typical of most Arabica varieties and suitable for all-day drinking. Actual caffeine in your cup depends on brewing method, dose, and water temperature more than the bean variety itself.

Researched and compiled by CoffeeTrove. Last updated March 2026.