From the beginning, we at O'Neill Coffee have proudly embraced the deep, rich flavors that come from expertly roasting coffee to its darkest potential. Whether it’s the smooth, smoky notes of our French Roast or the bold intensity of our Italian Roast (Lusso Italia), our commitment has always been to craft a dark roast experience that’s full-bodied, flavorful, and made with care.

If you’re a fan of bold, dark coffee, you’ve likely encountered both of these roasts. At first glance, they may seem similar with their dark, glossy beans and rich, inviting aroma. But beneath the surface, they deliver two very different flavor profiles.

The key difference lies in the roasting process. The length of roast time, especially during caramelization, plays a major role in shaping each roast’s taste, body, and ideal brewing method. In this blog, we’ll explore what sets these two classic dark roasts apart and help you discover which one best fits your coffee style.

French Roast:

French Roast is a classic dark roast known for its smoky, bittersweet flavor and full-bodied feel. It’s roasted until the beans are a deep brown with a slight sheen of oil. You’ll often taste notes of dark chocolate or roasted caramel. French roast is smooth and bold without being overly bitter, making it a good option for drip coffee, French press, or other immersion methods.

Italian Roast:

Lusso Italia, on the other hand, is roasted even longer, pushing the beans to their absolute limit. The result is an near black, very oily bean with a stronger, more intense flavor. Expect bold, slightly burnt notes with hints of roasted nuts or even a tannic and earthy finish. It’s best used for espresso, French press, or milk based drinks, where its flavor can truly show. 

Body and Mouthfeel:

French roast offers a full-bodied, smooth experience with a slightly oily texture. It coats the palate gently, delivering a bold yet balanced sip that many dark roast lovers enjoy.

Lusso Italia takes richness to a whole new level. It's thicker, more intense, and often described as having a velvety or syrupy mouthfeel. Thanks to the release of more natural oils, the roast brings a luxurious texture that lingers for a long period of time. 

Conclusion:

Visually, Italian roast beans are darker and shinier than French roast. Taste-wise, Italian roasts are stronger and more bitter, while French roasts are still bold but slightly more balanced. Choosing between them comes down to personal preference. Do you like smooth and smoky or bold and intense?

Written by - Lucio Chrestay

lucio@oneillcoffee.com