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Medium

Black & Tan

Roasted by Coffee By Design

This blend combines two South American coffees roasted dark and light to create a harmonious flavor profile.

Black & Tan — Coffee By Design
Image: courtesy of Coffee By Design
OrangeMilk ChocolateToffee

From the roaster

This blend is wonderful in its simplicity. It is two coffee from South America roasted two ways, dark (Black) and light (Tan). When combined, these two variations offer a wonderful harmony for the palate.

Flavor Notes:  Orange + Milk Chocolate + Toffee

Roast Level:  Medium

— Coffee By Design

Context

The Black & Tan blend, crafted by Coffee By Design, represents a classic approach to South American coffee sourcing. By combining beans from across the continent, this roast aims to balance the bright, citrus-forward acidity often found in high-altitude South American crops with the deep, comforting sweetness characteristic of regional profiles. The resulting cup profile features distinct notes of orange, milk chocolate, and toffee, offering a structured experience that bridges the gap between vibrant fruit and indulgent confectionary tones.

When evaluating such blends, it is helpful to consider how different processing methods and roast profiles influence the final sensory experience. While some coffees lean toward the sharp, acidic brightness of light roasts, this selection emphasizes a harmonious, dessert-like quality. For those looking to better identify these specific nuances in their own brewing, consulting a flavor wheel can be an excellent way to categorize the interplay between the citrus and cocoa elements present in this blend.

Buy — $23 from Coffee By Design

In the Encyclopedia

Frequently asked questions

What does Black & Tan taste like?

Expect tasting notes of Orange, Milk Chocolate, and Toffee.

What roast level is Black & Tan?

It is roasted to a medium level.

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Last verified: October 14, 2026 · Browse all beans.