You’ve probably heard the term “French Roast Coffee” thrown around in describing a type of roasted coffee. Surprisingly, many people don’t actually know what the term means!
The History of French Roast Coffee
French Roast, originating from France in the early 19th century, this roast was very popular in Europe throughout the 1800s. It’s known for being deep, dark, and bold.
Temperature control was a bit more difficult back then, and French Roast is commonly used as a bucket term for a dark roasted coffee. Real French Roast coffee is brought to 465 °F (240 °C). It’s likely that this coffee in the 19th century was brought to a high temperature, but French Roast is better defined today!
What Does French Roast Coffee Taste Like?
French Roast is among several dark roasts, so we’ll point out tasting notes that apply to the French Roast and to dark roasts in general. This roast tends to have a bold, intense, and something smoky flavor. It will feel thinner than lighter roasts and tends to be less acidic too!
However, most subtle flavors of the bean are lost during the roasting process, so many French Roasts will taste pretty similar regardless of origin or blend. What this usually means is that a French Roast will be consistent but not spectacular.
In short, French Roasts will taste:
- Bold, dark, and intense
- Smoky or slightly sweet (due to sugars coming out in the high heat)
- Less acidic and thinner than light roasts
Should I Buy French Roast Coffee?
We always recommend having a good mix of cheaper and more expensive beans in the pantry. Why? It’s a waste to brew an expensive geisha in a cheap drip coffee maker. But that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t have a reliable, inexpensive roast as a staple! If you’re interested in learning more about roast varieties, be sure to check out our article explaining the differences between roasts and the roasting process.
If you’re someone that loads up coffee with cream and sugar, or if you’re frequently taking coffee on the go without paying much mind, or if you have a hard time with acidic coffee, we recommend that you pick up a darker roast to alternate in to your routine!
French Roast coffee will also help you save money on your morning coffee because the beans are cheaper per ounce than most others out there.
Our Choice – SF Bay Coffee French Roast Whole Bean
Their French Roast is a dark roast coffee with a rich, bold flavor. The beans are roasted longer to bring out the natural oils and create a deep, intense flavor. This coffee is perfect for those who want a strong cup of coffee with a bold flavor.
The beans are roasted in small batches to ensure that each batch is of the highest quality. Additionally, their French Roast coffee is certified organic and fair trade, ensuring that you’re getting a great cup of coffee while also supporting sustainable farming practices.
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