Taste notes – the subtle hero of every cup
It’s mostly common knowledge that there are 3 main roast types when it comes to coffee – light roast coffee, medium roast coffee, and dark roast coffee. But underneath these roast types lies a world of subtle flavours, aromas, and tastes. And it’s time to clear up any myths or mysteries around them all.
Developed over years, the Starbucks® Roast Spectrum is an ideal starting point for choosing a coffee to brew and enjoy. The coffee roast levels can tell you a lot – how intense, strong, and mellow a cup of coffee is going to be. Then there are tasting notes; those hints and subtle flavours that swirl in every cup. The notes offer a whole new perspective into how you enjoy each cup of coffee.
WHAT THEY ARE?
COFFEE TASTING NOTESTasting notes are subtle, complex, and differ according to the coffee beans used, and how they were roasted
The next time you pick up your favourite Starbucks® coffee, you’ll probably notice some words used to describe flavour on the package such as caramelly, vanilla, biscuits, or toasted nuts. These are some of the examples of the tasting notes you’ll pick up on.
There are a lot of factors that define a coffee’s tasting notes – the coffee’s origins, how long they were roasted for, and at what temperature, just to name just a few. With a light roast, like Starbucks® Blonde Roast coffees, you'll notice delicate, less bitter, brighter notes with acidity and citrus touch. Starbucks® Medium Roast coffees provide a more mild, sweet, balanced and smooth taste. The Starbucks® Dark Roast coffees are the boldest of the bunch with a more robust, intense, roasted taste.
So, when you see “vanilla notes”, it just means there is a subtle flavour you’ll pick up on; the way a true connoisseur would. It doesn’t mean it’s a vanilla-flavoured coffee. But for those interested in exploring the flavoured coffees in the range, click here to find your new favourite.
A Starbucks Blonde® Roast coffee tends to have a lighter and more delicate taste, with a touch of acidity balanced with sweetness. Some taste notes for Starbucks Blonde® Roast include vanilla, cocoa, or citrus.
A medium roast coffee is usually more intense than a light roast, smooth, with rich flavors like toffee or chocolate amongst others.
The dark roast coffees in the Starbucks® range tend to deliver stronger, more intense taste with roasted character, caramelly and dark cocoa notes.
It’s time to explore and seek out the taste notes in each coffee to complete your coffee ritual. Just as a wine connoisseur truly appreciates every swirl, sip and taste – the same is possible with coffee.
Discover what best excites your tastebuds through the Starbucks® Roast Spectrum and explore a world of flavour waiting for you.
From low intensity roasts like Starbucks by Nespresso® Single-Origin Guatemala to higher intensity roasts like Starbucks® Espresso Roast, you’ll quickly find your favourite.
RECOMMENDED COFFEE
A delicious blend of Latin American and Asia/Pacific coffees, this espresso has a rich and caramelly sweetness and is at the heart of our handcrafted latte.
