French Roast Coffee: Definition, Taste, and Best Brands
Updated - Team Colipse
French roast coffee is a dark roast with a deep brown, oily surface. Beans are heated until they turn dark, near-charcoal. French roast coffee is made by roasting beans at 440-455°F (227-235°C) for 12-15 minutes, past the second crack. French roast coffee is bold and intense, with a deeply caramelized flavor. It has strong roasted, smoky, chocolate, and ashy notes. To make French roast coffee, use a French press for bold flavor, an espresso machine for intensity, or cold brew for balance. Use fresh, high-quality Arabica beans from specialty brands like Colipse, which roast beans to order for optimal freshness. Besides French roast coffee, other dark roasts offer bold flavors with low acidity.
What is French Roast Coffee?
French roast coffee refers to a dark roasted coffee with a deep brown color and an oily surface. French roast is a coffee roasting method where beans are heated until they reach a dark, near-charcoal hue. French roast coffee is defined by its dark roasting technique, not by the type or country of the coffee bean. French roast coffee beans are roasted for a longer time at higher temperatures, until the middle of second crack. At this roast level, most of the origin characteristics are lost, resulting in a bold, smoky flavor, full body, minimal acidity, and low brightness. Any coffee bean can be used to create a French roast coffee blend, but many roasters prefer high-quality Arabica beans. A French roast coffee is darker than a Viennese Roast and lighter than an Italian Roast on the coffee roast spectrum, with an Agtron SCAA score of 35-25.
What Does French Roast Coffee Mean?
The term "French roast coffee" means roasting style, not the origin, grind size, or brewing method. French roast coffee has various names indicating its dark roast. "Dark roast" is the most accurate general term but is not exclusive to French roast. "Very dark roast" highlights its intensity. "Black roast" can describe its deep color, though it may refer to Italian roast. "Continental roast" includes French roast under European dark roasts. "After-dinner roast" indicates its traditional use after meals. French roast coffee doesn't mean the beans came from France. While the term "French roast" originated in Europe during the 1800s, the term now means the roasting method, not the location.
What is the Origin of French Roast Coffee?
The origin of the term "French Roast" is unclear. The term "French Roast" was not mentioned in early records, but the roasting style emerged from 19th-century European coffee culture. French Roast coffee developed from Europe's preference for dark roasts in the 19th century, not from France itself. French Roast coffee is named for the French preference for dark roasting, a style that influenced European coffee culture, not its origin. Early French roast coffee was roasted to a dark brown at high temperatures (Agtron 28-35), creating a smoky, intense flavor. The name became widely recognized in the 20th century. French roast gained popularity in the coffee industry during the second wave of coffee in the 1960s and 1970s. Roasters like Alfred Peet influenced this trend by promoting darker roasts.
How is French Roast Coffee Made?
French roast coffee is made by roasting beans at higher temperatures between 440°F to 455°F (227°C to 235°C) for a longer period of 12 to 15 minutes. French roast is roasted through the second crack, an audible sound caused by the breakdown of bean cell walls, releasing aromatic oils to the surface. Roasters use the second crack to identify dark roast, and French roast is a dark roast. In contrast, medium roast coffee is roasted at 410°F to 428°F (210°C to 220°C) for a shorter time, retaining more of the beans' original flavors and balanced acidity. Roasting beans beyond 455°F results in Italian roast, the darkest of all roasts.
What are the French Roast Coffee Beans?
French roast coffee beans are the seeds of the Coffea arabica or Coffea canephora plant. They are processed and dark-roasted well into the second crack, until they reach a dark-brown, near-charcoal color. This intense roasting process breaks down cell walls, releasing oils that make beans shiny and oily. The beans become brittle, slightly less dense and prone to fracturing. French roast coffee beans have a bold, smoky flavor and rank among the darkest coffee roasts. They have an Agtron SCAA score of 35-25, making them darker than a Viennese Roast but lighter than an Italian Roast.
What are the Characteristics of French Roast Coffee?
The characteristics of French roast coffee are defined by its very dark roasting process. Key attributes include roast level, bean color, surface texture, oil content, bean size, and other physical properties. The following table summarizes these characteristics.
| French Roast Coffee Characteristics | Description |
|---|---|
| Roast Level (Agtron Score) | 35-25 |
| Bean Color (L* value) | ~20 (on a 0–100 scale) |
| Surface Texture (Oily Coating) | Surface oil coverage is estimated at approximately 80%. |
| Oil Content (% by weight) | Approximately 18% |
| Bean Size (Length) | ~11 mm |
| Bean Weight | ~0.12 g |
| Bean Shape | Elliptical |
| Bean Density | The typical range is 0.330 to 0.357 g/cm³ |
| Moisture Content | Between 1-3% |
| Bean Hardness | French roast coffee beans are generally softer than lighter roasts because they are more brittle. |
| Bean Porosity | French roast coffee beans have a higher porosity than green beans, around 26.30%. |
| Caloric Value | French roast coffee beans have 300-400 calories per 100 grams. Brewed French roast coffee only has 2 calories per 8 fl oz. because the solids and oils are left behind when brewing. |
| Protein Content | French roast coffee beans contain roughly 11% crude protein. Brewed french roast coffee has about 0.3 grams of protein per 8 fl oz serving. |
| Carbohydrate Content | French roast coffee beans have about 60g carbs per 100g. Brewed french roast coffee has almost no carbs because they stay in the grounds. |
| Fat Content | Two tablespoons of whole French roast coffee beans contain a very small amount of fat, close to 0.2 grams. Brewed French roast coffee is very low in fat, approximately 0.1 grams per 8 fl oz cup. |
| Fiber Content | French roast coffee beans do contain fiber. Brewed French roast coffee ends up containing very little fiber because the majority of the fiber remains in the coffee grounds. |
| Caffeine Content | Around 95 mg of caffeine per 8-ounce (237 ml) serving |
| Chlorogenic Acid Content | French roast coffee has less chlorogenic acid (CGA). Dark roasting lowers CGA to 6-10% of green bean levels. Heat during roasting breaks down the CGA. |
| Antioxidant Capacity | The antioxidant content of french roast coffee beans is generally lower compared to lighter roasts. |
| Flavor Profile | dark, smoky taste. Low acid. Tastes like dark chocolate, caramelized sugar, and a bit charred. |
What Does French Roast Coffee Taste Like?
French roast coffee tastes bold and intense, with a deeply caramelized flavor profile in aroma and cup. The flavor profile is dominated by intense roasted notes, with smoky-deep, chocolaty and ashy elements. The first impression delivers intensity, a full body, and a creamy mouthfeel, particularly delicious with a splash of whole milk.
As you sip, the intensity of the French roast mellows slightly, revealing bittersweet dark chocolate and woody undertones. It replaces coffee acidity with nutty or earthy flavors and a slight char. The finish often reveals subtle smoke or tobacco-like tones, leaving a lingering, robust aftertaste. Its slight oily sheen during brewing creates a rich, smooth texture that contrasts with lighter and darker roasts.
The complex flavor profile of French roast coffee can be broken down into primary, secondary, and tertiary flavors, as shown in the following table.
| Primary Flavors | Secondary Flavors | Tertiary Flavors |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted | Smoky, Ashy | Charred, Burnt |
| Nutty / Cocoa | Dark Chocolate, Caramelized | Molasses, Toasted Nuts |
| Sweet | Brown Sugar, Maple Syrup | Hints of Toffee |
| Spices | Clove, Nutmeg | Subtle Tobacco |
| Earthy | Woody, Musty | Deep Tobacco, Charcoal |
Is French Roast Coffee Bitter?
No, French roast coffee is not solely bitter; it offers a bold, smoky flavor with a balance of bitterness and subtle sweetness. Its full-bodied profile enhances complexity beyond bitterness. The dark roast creates intense flavors with notes of charcoal, ash, and dark chocolate. Roasting to a very dark level brings oils to the surface, caramelizing sugars for a bittersweet taste. Over-extraction can increase bitterness, but using cooler water or a coarser grind reduces it.
Is French Roast Coffee Acidic?
No, French Roast coffee is less acidic than lighter roasts. The extended dark roasting process reduces the acidity levels by breaking down chlorogenic acids in the beans. Higher roasting temperatures increase caramelization, reduce citric and malic acids, and lower perceived acidity. However, the coffee’s pH, which is typically around 5.0 to 5.5, remains largely unchanged. This creates a bolder, less tangy flavor profile.
Is French Roast Coffee Strong?
Yes, French roast coffee has a strong flavor and intense profile, though its caffeine content varies. The long roasting time makes a heavy, strong, and full-bodied taste, good for people who like strong coffee. Despite its rich taste, French Roast generally contains less caffeine than lighter roasts.
How Much Caffeine is in French Roast Coffee?
French roast coffee contains 95 mg of caffeine per 8-ounce (237 ml) serving, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The caffeine content can range from 70 mg to 140 mg depending on the coffee bean type, brewing method, and desired strength. French roast coffee blends with Robusta and Arabica beans contain more caffeine than blends made with 100% Arabica beans. For example, Peet’s French roast contains 267 mg of caffeine per 16-ounce serving, or about 133.5 mg per 8-ounce serving. An 8-ounce Starbucks French roast blend contains 180 mg of caffeine, while their French Roast Ground Coffee K-Cup Pods have 130 mg per serving. French roast coffee generally has less caffeine than lighter roasts.
How to Make French Roast Coffee?
To make French roast coffee for a bold flavor use a French press, for intensity use an espresso machine, and for a balanced taste use cold brew. The best brewing method for French roast coffee is the French press. This method keeps the bold, smoky flavors of the dark roast by steeping coarse grounds in hot water for 4-5 minutes. The metal filter lets more oils go through, making it richer. To brew the perfect french roast coffee, follow these five steps below.
- Select Fresh Beans: Use freshly roasted French roast coffee beans from specialty brands like Colipse for optimal flavor. Fresh beans taste better because they keep natural oils and aromas. Grocery store French roast beans often lose flavor after sitting on shelves for weeks. Choose whole beans and grind before brewing for the best results.
- Grind Correctly: Choose a grind size that matches your brewing method. Coarse grind works best for French press, preventing sediment and allowing proper extraction. Medium grind suits drip coffee and pour-over methods like Chemex for balanced flavor. Fine grind is necessary for espresso and AeroPress, ensuring full extraction in short brew times. Medium-fine grind is ideal for a Moka pot, delivering strong flavor without clogging the filter.
- Use Filter Water: Brew French roast coffee with filtered water heated to 195–205°F for ideal extraction. Filtered water removes chlorine, lead, and excessive minerals that cause bitterness, chalkiness, or metallic tastes in French roast coffee. This enhances the flavor, creating a smoother and more balanced profile with notes of fruit, chocolate, or nuts.
- Measure Precisely: Use a 1:15 coffee-to-water ratio for a balanced French Press brew. For Cold Brew, use a 1:8 ratio to create a concentrate that can be diluted with water or milk. A Moka Pot requires a 1:7 ratio for a strong, espresso-like coffee.
- Serve Fresh: For the best flavor, enjoy French roast coffee immediately. Explore recipes such as a French roast latte, espresso tonic, or café au lait for a delightful coffee experience.
What are the Best French Roast Coffee Beans?
The following are the five best French roast coffee beans.
- Colipse French Roast Coffee
- San Francisco Bay French Roast Coffee
- Starbucks French Roast Coffee
- Peet's French Roast Coffee
- Gevalia French Roast Coffee
1. Colipse French Roast Coffee
Colipse French Roast is an extra-dark, specialty-grade coffee blend. It combines Caturra, Typica, Bourbon, and Castillo beans sourced from high-altitude farms in Colombia, El Salvador, and Panama. This is the best French roast whole bean coffee. Beans ferment aerobically in open tanks, are fully washed, and hand-sorted to achieve specialty-grade scores of 85+. This coffee has a bold, smoky, and complex flavor with rich dark chocolate, smoky toffee, subtle berry notes. Each 12-ounce bag is freshly roasted after you place your order, delivering superior flavor compared to stale, lifeless grocery store beans. Colipse is an online store that sells freshly roasted specialty coffee.
2. San Francisco Bay French Roast Coffee
San Francisco Bay French Roast coffee is a top French Roast K-Cup option available on Amazon, Costco, and Walmart. It comes from premium Arabica beans grown in Central and South America. This dark French roast has a rich, full-bodied flavor with a smoky finish. It offers a bold yet smooth taste, making it a top choice for French Roast single serve brews. A 100-count box costs around $60 USD at Walmart, with prices varying by retailer.
3. Starbucks French Roast Coffee
Starbucks French Roast Coffee is a very dark-roasted coffee. Starbucks uses high-quality 100% Arabica beans, the same ones used in their cafés. Thier French Roast coffee has a light body and low acidity with a flavor profile featuring dark caramel, sweet smoke, and intense smokiness. The price of Starbucks French Roast coffee varies. A 12-ounce bag previously cost around $10.99. It is available in ground, whole bean, and instant formats at many retailers.
4. Peet's French Roast Coffee
Peet's French Roast Coffee is similar to Starbucks french roast. It uses high-altitude Latin American Arabica beans that mature slowly for a richer flavor. It delivers a bold, smoky taste with notes of dark chocolate, smoke, and burnt sugar. Peet's French Roast Coffee ranks among the best organic French roast coffee brands. Pricing and availability vary.
5. Gevalia French Roast Coffee
Gevalia French Roast Coffee ranks among the best french roast ground coffee due to its rich, smooth flavor and boldness without bitterness. Made from 100% Arabica beans, it undergoes slow roasting and snap cooling to preserve flavor. The taste and price are good. Its complex profile features smoky undertones and dried fruit notes. Prices range from $7.39 USD to $8.99 USD, available in stores and online.
How to Choose the Best French Roast Coffee?
To choose the best French roast, follow these five steps below.
- Determine Your Preferences: Decide on the desired flavor profile, such as smoky or caramelized notes.
- Check Roast Level: Ensure it’s labeled as a dark roast or specifically French roast.
- Research Bean Origin: Select beans from regions known for high-quality coffee, like Ethiopia or Colombia.
- Read Reviews: Look for user feedback on flavor, aroma, and freshness.
- Examine Freshness: Opt for beans with recent roast dates and vacuum-sealed packaging.
At Colipse, we offer French roast coffee available as whole beans for any grinder or espresso machine, and as drip-ground coffee for drip and pour-over brewers. We recommend using freshly roasted French roast beans, ideally within two weeks of the roast date. Colipse does not sell French roast decaf coffee beans.
What is the Best French Roast Coffee?
The best French roast coffee is the one made of high-quality Arabica beans and a precise, dark roasting process. Choose specialty-grade, freshly roasted beans to preserve their natural oils and flavors. The best French roast has a very dark, nearly black color with a bold, smoky flavor and a hint of bittersweet chocolate. It features a rich, full body and a smooth, lingering finish while avoiding burnt or ashy notes. You can find best French roast coffee in local coffee roasters, coffee shops, or specialty coffee stores, like Colipse. The best way to store French roast coffee is in an airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture.
Where to Buy French Roast Coffee?
You can buy French roast coffee from specialty coffee shops or online retailers that offer fresh roasts. Look for options with diverse origins and detailed flavor profiles. Some mass-produced brands also offer French roast coffee, but it may lack freshness. Consider exploring local coffee roasters or online retailers specializing in small-batch roasted coffee, like Colipse, for the freshest and most flavorful options.
What is the Price for French Roast Coffee?
Here at Colipse we sell French Roast Coffee for $20.50 per 12 oz bag. Our gift cards and subscriptions start at $18.45 with a 10% discount, delivering every 2 or 4 weeks.
How Does French Roast Coffee Compare to Other Roasts?
French roast coffee is darker than medium and light roasts, offering a bold, smoky flavor with minimal acidity. Lighter coffee roasts, such as American roast or Breakfast roasts, highlight the coffee bean's origin characteristics with bright acidity and fruity or nutty undertones. Medium roasts, such as City or Full roast, fall in between, balancing the origin flavors with caramelized sweetness from the roasting process.
What is the Difference between Italian Roast and French Roast?
The main difference between Italian and French roast coffee is the roast level. Italian roast coffee is darker and oilier, with a bold, smoky flavor and low acidity. French roast is slightly lighter but still dark, offering a balance of strong flavor with a hint of bitterness. Both are used for espresso.
What is the Difference between French Roast and Dark Roast?
All French roasts are dark roasts, but not all dark roasts qualify as French roasts. The main difference lies in the roasting process, influencing color, flavor, caffeine content, acidity, body, and brewing suitability. French roast is darker, bolder, and has lower caffeine due to longer roasting at higher temperatures. It has a lower acidity and often features bittersweet chocolate or smoky notes. A standard dark roast coffee is lighter in color and milder in flavor due to shorter roasting, resulting in slightly higher acidity and a lighter body. While still full-bodied, it has a sweeter profile. French roasts suit French press, espresso, and cold brew, while dark roasts work well in drip coffee, pour-over, and lattes.
Is French Roast and Colombian Roast the Same?
No, French roast and Colombian roast are not the same. "Colombian" refers to the origin of the coffee beans, while "French roast" describes how dark the beans are roasted. French roast coffee has a bolder flavor than coffee made with Colombian beans due to its dark roast and high roasting temperatures. Colombian beans are typically roasted to a medium level, between 410°F and 428°F, which features light caramelization, some brightness, and a medium body. This roast highlights a smooth, aromatic, and flavorful profile, contrasting French roast's smoky intensity.
Are French Roast Coffee Beans the Same as Espresso Beans?
No, French roast coffee beans and espresso beans are not the same. French roast refers to a dark roasting style, while espresso beans can be any roast level, though medium to dark roasts are common. Espresso is a brewing method, and any coffee bean can be used for it.
What are the Facts about French Roast Coffee?
The three facts about French roast coffee are listed below.
- The specialty coffee industry remains divided on French roast, as some claim it overdevelops coffee and masks origin-specific flavors.
- In January 2025, industry insiders at a Coffee Congress noted that French roast profiles remain popular as roasters innovate blends for classic and modern tastes.
- A February 2025 Reuters poll showed that rising raw bean costs are leading roasters to use French roast–like techniques to balance flavor and production costs.