What does the term "roast" indicate in coffee?

The term "roast" in the context of coffee specifically refers to the stage of processing and flavor development that occurs when coffee beans are heated. During roasting, the green coffee beans undergo various chemical changes as they are exposed to high temperatures. This process not only develops the flavors and aromas that are characteristic of different coffee types but also transforms the beans into a darker color, indicating a level of roasting.

Each roasting level—light, medium, dark—impacts the taste profile significantly, affecting acidity, sweetness, body, and bitterness. Therefore, understanding roasting is crucial for baristas and coffee enthusiasts alike, as it directly influences the overall flavor of the coffee served.

The other options discuss unrelated aspects of coffee, such as the cultivation and processing of the beans, the choice of milk, and the methods used in brewing, which do not define what "roast" means within the context of coffee.