Roast Levels

Let's learn about the roasting levels of coffee together! As you know, Mozart's was the first in-house roaster in Austin, TX 25 years ago. Through the years, we've learned quite a bit about coffee. Maybe there are a few things that you will learn through this simple lesson, too!

Light Roast
Coffee is dropped from the roaster well before second crack. The chaff is still in the bean and the development time is 20% or less. The temperature application is generally much hotter and faster. The roast times are much shorter. The final temperatures range from 400-415 degrees. The flavors decidedly favor the acidity over the body and are bright.

Light Medium Roast
Coffee Is Dropped just before second crack. The development time is just over 20% and the beans are smooth on the outside. The temperature curve is controlled at the 2nd stage of the roast to enhance the body after locking in the acidity. Final temperatures are 415-420 degrees. The flavor outcome is a balance between the natural acidity tempered by fuller body.

Medium Roast
Coffee is dropped just seconds into second crack. The development time is at 25% and the beans may or may not have some oils on them. The roast is stretched out in the middle to add a full body and start temperatures are lower for a smooth clean finish. Coffee comes out at 420+degrees. The flavor is a heavier body and full thick mouth feel that still has underlying acidity.

Vienna Roast
Coffee is dropped just into second crack as the oils are just starting to become visible. The development time is extended. The roast curve is like medium and hits the sweet spot in between medium and French roast. Coffee comes out at 425+ degrees. Subtle dark roast flavors.

French Roast
Coffee is dropped well into second crack and the oils are on the surface of the bean. Development time is over 25%. The roast curve is like Vienna and Medium roast with a slower rate of rise in the ramp stages of the roast. Coffee comes out at 430+ degrees. Intense dark robust roast flavors abound.

Italian Roast
Coffee is dropped from the roaster after second crack and the oils fully saturate the bean. Development time is prolonged from the extended roast times. The roast curve is uniquely longer and slower. Coffee is roasted to 440+ degrees . Smokey and silky flavor and mouthfeel, intense yet smooth finish.

Which roast is your favorite?! We'd love to hear!