Medium-Dark Roast Coffee
Bold and complex with rich bittersweet notes. The classic choice for espresso lovers and those who prefer intensity.
What is Medium-Dark Roast?
Medium-dark roast coffee is roasted to an internal temperature of 428-446°F (220-230°C), typically at or just into the second crack. The beans develop a rich, dark brown color with some oil beginning to appear on the surface.
At this roast level, the roast character becomes prominent while still allowing some origin flavors to shine through. The result is a bold, full-bodied coffee with bittersweet chocolate, spicy, and caramelized notes.
Common names include: Full City Roast, After Dinner Roast, Vienna Roast, and Continental Roast.
Quick Facts
| Roast Temperature | 428-446°F (220-230°C) |
| Roast Level | At or into second crack |
| Bean Color | Dark brown, some oil |
| Caffeine Content | Medium-Low |
| Acidity | Low-Medium |
| Body | Full |
Flavor Profile
Bold roast character with lingering finish
Common Tasting Notes
Chocolate: Dark chocolate, bittersweet cocoa, fudge
Spicy: Black pepper, clove, cinnamon
Sweet: Molasses, burnt sugar, caramelized
Other: Toasted bread, tobacco, leather, earthy
Best Brewing Methods
Medium-dark roasts excel with pressure and immersion brewing
Espresso
The quintessential choice. Medium-dark roasts produce rich crema, balanced bitterness, and complex flavors perfect for straight shots or milk drinks.
View GuideFrench Press
Full immersion brewing brings out the oil and body. The result is a rich, satisfying cup with prominent chocolate notes.
View GuideMoka Pot
Creates concentrated, espresso-style coffee on the stovetop. The intense brew method pairs well with this bold roast level.
View GuideRecommended Medium-Dark Roasts
Top picks for espresso and bold coffee lovers
Lavazza Gran Espresso
Classic Italian espresso blend with notes of dark chocolate, dried fruit, and a velvety crema. Perfect for lattes.
View on AmazonIlly Classico Espresso
Smooth and balanced with notes of caramel, orange blossom, and jasmine. A refined medium-dark experience.
View on AmazonKicking Horse Cliff Hanger
Wild and complex with notes of cocoa, stone fruit, and a sweet vanilla finish. Organic and fair trade certified.
View on AmazonMedium-Dark for Espresso
Why Espresso Loves Medium-Dark
Medium-dark roasts have long been the standard for espresso, and for good reason:
Solubility: The extended roasting breaks down more cellular structure, making the coffee more soluble and easier to extract quickly under pressure.
Oil Content: The oils that begin to appear on the surface contribute to a thicker, more stable crema.
Flavor Compatibility: The bittersweet, caramelized flavors pair beautifully with steamed milk in lattes and cappuccinos.
Forgiveness: Medium-dark roasts are more forgiving of slight variations in grind size, dose, and extraction time compared to lighter roasts.