When it comes to choosing your coffee beans, there are two main types to choose from, French roast and Vienna roast. Both have unique flavor that will give you different experience. So, how do you choose your beans?
It really depends on your personal taste. If you like intense and bold flavor, you should go for Vienna. But if you like a delicate and nuanced flavor, go for French roast. Both have different roasting process that produces different flavor and aroma, so let’s discuss how they are similar and how they are different.
Vienna Roast vs. French Roast
Vienna and French roast are almost similar, but their main difference is how long their roasting time. Vienna is roasted for a longer period of time and this roasting period results in a darker color and more intense flavor while French has a shorter roasting time compared to Vienna giving it a lighter color and a mild flavor.
Both are roasted similarly but has distinct difference when it comes to their feature.
Appearance
Both French and Vienna roast are dark roast, but their color is not the same.
French – dark brown and almost black
Vienna – light to medium brown with a hint of redness.
Aroma and Flavor Notes
Vienna roast have a floral and nutty aroma with fruity, malty and bitter undertones. While French roast have an earthy and wine-like aroma with hints of chocolate and caramelized flavor like espresso coffees.
Body
French roast have medium to entire body which means it has richer flavor but lighter in body density. Vienna roast have light body density as well but has more acidity.
What is French Roast?
French roast is a blend of different beans with different origins that produces dark and oily coffee. It is associated with the classic French press brewing method. It is traditionally roasted for a longer period compared to other roast. French roast have dark color and produces more oil. It has a bitter, rich and smokey taste which makes it perfect for espresso drinks.
Why Is It Called French Roast?
French roast, also known as ristretto is an old roasting style, meaning restricted in Italian. Ristretto was used to create very dark coffee with strong flavors that has less acidity and is not too bitter. When you say French roast, you are buying beans that are roasted for a long time.
What is Vienna Roast?
Like French roast, Vienna Roast is also a dark roast coffee. It is brewed using Arabica beans with medium to whole body. Its distinct flavor and aroma makes it suitable for any time of the day. Vienna roast is popular because of its solid flavor and nutty taste that will remind you of almonds or hazelnuts.
It has chocolate and caramel notes which makes it a perfect pair for desserts. With its robustness, Vienna roast is great for people who like their morning coffee intense and bold.
What Does Vienna Roast Taste Like?
Vienna roast was developed in the city of Vienna, Austria, hence the name. People often describe Vienna as mild and smooth, but it can also be acidic and bitter. Its mildness is due to it being low in acidity which makes it easier for your stomach compared to other dark roast.
If you are sensitive to acidity and caffeine, you may find this blend enough to keep you awake during work and school hours, but for those who are not sensitive, you can enjoy this as your afternoon coffee without worrying of disrupting your sleeping schedule.
Ways to Brew French and Vienna Roasts
If you like your coffee rich and dark with smokey flavor, then go for a French roast. This roast gets stronger and bolder as it cools down.
If you like a sweeter and silkier, try Vienna roast which is less acidic than French roast.
French Press
One of the best ways to brew Vienna and French roast is by using French Press. It’s simple and easy to use that will give you delicious and flavorful coffee.
Cold Brew
Cold brewing is one of the easiest way to brew French and Vienna roast. It is also the most popular process. To start your cold brew, steep your coffee grounds in room temperature water for 12 to 24 hours and then strain it. This process will give you a concentrated coffee that can be diluted in hot or cold water.
Espresso Machine
With our technology and recent innovations, tons of espresso machines have been produced. We have expensive machines that can froth your milk for you and cheap machines that can serve you up to 15 cups of coffee in one brewing.
Espresso machines produce concentrated espresso shot that you can readily use for any drinks you like. Have your machine produce frothed milk, and you have a latte. Pour it over ice, and you have a really good iced coffee.
Espresso machines have become a staple in almost every home today.
Final Thoughts
Both French and Vienna roast have their own flavor and produces a delicious cup of coffee. Each has a different roasting process, appearance, and taste.
If you are new to choosing your own coffee beans, it is best to determine what you like best in your coffee. Do you like light and sweet coffee or do you prefer a more bitter taste? You can try different roast to see what you like best or go to your local coffee shop and ask them what roast they use in your favorite coffee.
At the end of the day, it really comes down to personal preference. So don’t be afraid in trying different kinds of roasts and blends. Take on the adventure of finding the best coffee beans for your morning cup!
