At Heroes Rise Coffee Company, located in the heart of Bemidji, MN, we proudly roast for those who serve. Family-owned and operated, and led by first responders, our mission is simple: sell quality coffee to fuel the heroes who protect and serve their communities every day. When you buy our coffee, you're helping us give back to first responders, the military, and other everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
One question we often get from our community is: what’s the difference between cold brew and iced coffee? Both are delicious, refreshing, and great on a hot day, but they differ in preparation, flavor, and even the roast that suits them best. So, let’s dive in and help you find your perfect chilled coffee fix. If you ask Matt, you know he will tell you cold brew all the way! But lets see what you think =)
What is Cold Brew?
Cold brew is brewed slowly over time—usually 12 to 24 hours—using cold or room-temperature water. This method extracts the flavors without using heat, resulting in a smooth, slightly sweeter coffee that’s less acidic than hot-brewed methods.
Pros of Cold Brew:
- Lower Acidity: Cold brew is known for being gentle on the stomach because it has significantly less acidity than iced coffee or hot brews.
- Rich, Smooth Flavor: The slow brewing process results in a naturally sweet, rich flavor, which is perfect for those who like a smooth cup.
- Long Shelf Life: You can make a large batch of cold brew and store it in your fridge for up to two weeks, making it an easy grab-and-go option.
Cons of Cold Brew:
- Takes Time: Cold brew takes anywhere from 12 to 24 hours to prepare, so it's not a last-minute option.
- Less Brightness: Because cold brew reduces acidity, it also dampens some of the brighter, more nuanced flavors found in lighter roasts.
What is Iced Coffee?
Iced coffee, on the other hand, is simply hot coffee that’s brewed and then chilled by pouring over ice. It’s quick, convenient, and tastes very similar to your regular cup of coffee—just colder.
Pros of Iced Coffee:
- Quick to Prepare: You can make iced coffee in minutes by brewing hot coffee and cooling it down with ice.
- More Versatile: Iced coffee works with a wide variety of brewing methods, from drip to espresso, making it an easy option for those who already have a favorite way of making hot coffee.
- Great for Bright Flavors: If you enjoy lighter, fruity, or acidic coffee notes, iced coffee highlights these bright flavors more than cold brew.
Cons of Iced Coffee:
- Higher Acidity: Since it’s brewed hot, iced coffee maintains more acidity than cold brew, which can be hard on sensitive stomachs.
- Dilution: As the ice melts, your coffee can become watery unless you make it extra strong at the start.
Roast Levels for Cold Brew vs. Iced Coffee
Cold Brew Roasts:
- Dark Roasts: Dark roasts like French or Italian roast are ideal for cold brew. The bold, rich flavors of dark roasts become even smoother in cold brew, with notes of chocolate, caramel, and even smokiness. The lower acidity in dark roasts complements the cold brew process perfectly, making for a robust, full-bodied drink.
- Medium Roasts: Medium roasts provide a balanced cold brew experience. You’ll still get some richness, but with a bit more complexity in flavor, like hints of nuts, cocoa, and a subtle sweetness.
- Light Roasts: While light roasts are less commonly used for cold brew, they can still deliver a unique experience. The bright, fruity flavors of a light roast will be muted by the cold brewing process, but you may still pick up on floral and citrus notes. However, the reduced acidity of cold brew can make light roasts taste somewhat flat compared to their hot-brewed counterparts.
Iced Coffee Roasts:
- Light Roasts: For iced coffee, light roasts shine. The quick brewing process preserves the bright, fruity, and acidic notes, making iced coffee made from a light roast crisp and refreshing. You may taste hints of citrus, berries, and even floral undertones.
- Medium Roasts: If you prefer a bit more balance, a medium roast is a great choice for iced coffee. You’ll still get some of those fruity notes, but with added warmth from flavors like caramel and nuts.
- Dark Roasts: Dark roasts in iced coffee bring out deep, rich flavors. The chocolate, toffee, and smoky elements make for a bolder iced coffee experience. Just be careful, as the higher acidity from the hot brewing method may accentuate bitterness in a dark roast when chilled.
Which One is Right for You?
Choosing between cold brew and iced coffee really comes down to what you want from your cup of coffee.
- Go for Cold Brew if you prefer a smooth, rich flavor without the acidity. It’s also a great option if you want to batch brew and have coffee ready in your fridge. If you love bold, chocolatey flavors, opt for a dark roast in your cold brew for a truly satisfying experience.
- Go for Iced Coffee if you’re a fan of bright, fruity, or floral flavors and don’t mind a bit of acidity. Light and medium roasts are the way to go for a refreshing, zesty iced coffee that maintains the complexities of the bean.
Heroes Rise Coffee: Fueling Your Day, Fueling Heroes
At Heroes Rise Coffee Company, we offer a wide range of roast levels, perfect for cold brew, iced coffee, or whatever way you prefer to brew. Every bag of coffee we sell helps us give back to the heroes who serve, and we’re proud to fuel first responders, military personnel, and other community heroes through our mission. Whether you like your coffee smooth and cold or bright and icy, we’ve got a roast for you.
Ready to try the difference between cold brew and iced coffee? Explore our selection of premium roasts, specially crafted to fuel your day—and the heroes who protect us all. Be sure to check out our Siren Summit coffee that is made for cold brew!
