What might you observe in coffee beans that have been over-roasted?

• A. A sweet and vibrant flavor
• B. A hint of sourness
• C. A bitter and charred flavor
• D. A floral aroma

Answer: (C)

When coffee beans are over-roasted, they undergo a significant change in their chemical composition due to excessive exposure to heat. This process typically results in a flavor profile that is characterized by bitterness and a burnt or charred taste. The high temperatures cause the sugars in the beans to caramelize and then eventually burn, overshadowing the desirable flavors that are normally present in properly roasted coffee.

In addition to the bitter profile, over-roasted beans may lose their nuanced characteristics, such as their original sweetness, acidity, and any unique aromatic qualities that different coffee varieties might possess. Instead of the vibrant and pleasant flavors found in well-roasted beans, the tasting notes often become one-dimensional and harsh. This is why the observation of a bitter and charred flavor is a reliable indicator of over-roasting.