Understanding the Differences Between Espresso and Filter Roasts
What is the Difference Between Espresso and Filter Roasts
If you are someone who is used to picking up instant coffee from the shelves of your neighbourhood grocery store, choosing between different roasts may seem like an alien concept. After all, what difference does it make if you pick up a special filter roast or an espresso roast? Turns out, a lot. At Coffee Gems, we bring to you some of the finest coffees from around the world that are expertly roasted by our artisan roasters to bring out the subtle nuances in the taste of every bean. And to ensure that our coffees are delicious, we roast them to suit different brewing methods and devices.
In this blog post, we'll help you understand the differences between espresso and filter roasts, and how to choose the right roast for your preferred brewing method. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or just starting to explore the world of specialty coffee, we hope that this post will help you discover the perfect cup of coffee for your taste buds. So sit back, relax, and let's dive into the wonderful world of coffee roasting!
Length of roasting process
One of the most significant differences between espresso and filter roasts is the length of the roasting process. Espresso roasts are typically roasted for a more extended period, which creates a darker roast and enhances the coffee's body and caramelization. The longer roasting process also reduces the acidity levels in the coffee, creating a smooth, rich, and full-bodied flavour. Espresso roasts are designed to be highly soluble, which allows them to dissolve quickly and easily when brewed in an espresso machine. This is because espresso machines use high pressure to force hot water through finely ground coffee, extracting the maximum amount of flavour in a short amount of time.
Filter roasts, on the other hand, are roasted for a shorter period at a lower temperature, which preserves the coffee's natural acidity and highlights its subtle flavours. The resulting coffee has a lighter roast and a cleaner taste, with a more delicate and nuanced flavour profile. Because filter coffee is brewed at a lower temperature and over a more extended period, the brewing process extracts different flavour compounds from the coffee, creating a more complex taste experience.
Brewing method
Another essential factor that distinguishes espresso and filter roasts is the brewing method. Espresso machines are designed to brew coffee quickly and efficiently, and the resulting coffee is highly concentrated. Espresso is served in small, strong shots, and is often used as a base for other coffee drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos.
Filter coffee, on the other hand, is brewed more slowly and uses a coarser grind, which allows the water to flow through the coffee more evenly. This results in a more consistent extraction of flavour and a cleaner taste. The brewing process for filter coffee can be done in various ways, including using a drip machine, French press, or pour-over method.
Omni roasting
Omni roasting is a relatively new approach to coffee roasting that aims to create a coffee roast that can be used for any brewing method. Omni roasts are typically roasted for a duration that is longer than filter roasts but shorter than espresso roasts, which makes them more soluble and preserves the coffee's unique flavours. The idea behind omni roasting is that it offers greater flexibility and experimentation for coffee lovers who want to try different brewing methods without having to buy multiple types of coffee roasts.
The differences between espresso and filter roasts come down to the length of the roasting process, the brewing method, and the resulting flavour profile. Whether you prefer a rich, full-bodied espresso or a delicate, nuanced filter coffee, there is a roast and brewing method that can deliver the flavour experience you crave. At Coffee Gems, we offer an extensive selection of artisan coffees that are expertly roasted to bring out the unique characteristics of each bean. So, explore our collection and discover your new favourite coffee today.