What distinguishes a 'city roast' from a 'full city roast'?

• A. A city roast is significantly darker than a full city roast
• B. A city roast has a deeper flavor than a full city roast
• C. A city roast is slightly lighter than a full city roast, which has deeper flavor development
• D. A city roast is the same as a full city roast

Answer: (C)

The distinction between a 'city roast' and a 'full city roast' is primarily based on the roasting temperature and the resultant flavor profiles. In this context, a city roast is slightly lighter than a full city roast. This means that the coffee beans undergo a shorter roasting time, which preserves more of the inherent characteristics of the green coffee, including its brightness and acidity.

On the other hand, a full city roast involves a more developed roasting process, leading to deeper flavor development. The longer exposure to heat allows for a more complex flavor profile to emerge from the coffee, often resulting in fuller body and less acidity compared to the city roast. This is why the distinction is essential for roasters aiming to achieve specific flavor profiles, as the two roast types cater to different taste preferences.