Every cup of coffee has a story, and part of that story is told through its roast. While the beans may grow in the same volcanic soils of Guatemala, their character changes dramatically depending on how they are roasted. If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between a dark roast and a medium roast, let’s take a closer look at how each roast shapes the flavor, aroma, and experience of your coffee.

The Journey from Bean to Roast

Coffee starts out as a green bean with subtle, grassy notes. It’s during roasting that these beans transform into the rich, aromatic treasures we know and love. The length of time and temperature during roasting determine whether the beans develop into a medium roast—balanced and nuanced—or a dark roast, bold and smoky.

Medium Roast: Balance and Brightness

Medium roasts are often described as the sweet spot in coffee roasting. They preserve much of the bean’s natural character while introducing warm, caramelized flavors. In the case of Guatemalan coffee, a medium roast highlights the unique terroir of the region—think bright acidity, hints of fruit, and a smooth, balanced body. It’s the perfect roast for those who want to taste the complexity of the bean itself.

Dark Roast: Bold and Intense

Dark roasts, on the other hand, spend more time in the roaster, which deepens the flavors and reduces acidity. The result is a cup that feels fuller, richer, and more intense. Notes of chocolate, spice, or even smokiness often dominate, creating a bold profile that lingers on the palate. For many, a dark roast represents comfort—the kind of coffee that pairs beautifully with early mornings or late nights.

Choosing Between the Two

So, which one should you choose? It comes down to preference. If you enjoy a vibrant, complex cup that tells the story of the Guatemalan highlands, a medium roast is for you. But if you crave depth, strength, and a bold character, dark roast will be your perfect companion.

Either way, both roasts share one thing in common: they are crafted from high-quality Guatemalan coffee beans grown in rich volcanic soil and harvested by skilled farmers. That origin is what makes every sip extraordinary—whether smooth and balanced or bold and smoky.

A Roast for Every Mood

The beauty of coffee is that it adapts to us. Some days call for the brightness and elegance of a medium roast, while others demand the intensity of a dark roast. At Kishé Organics, we celebrate both, knowing that every roast is another way to honor the hard work of Guatemalan farmers and the diversity of flavors their beans can offer.