Summer hits, and the last thing you want is a hot cup. But light roast with AeroPress can be your best friend for cold brew or iced coffee. The quick extraction means you can brew a concentrate directly into a glass of ice, and the bright, fruity notes hold up beautifully when cold. That's something darker roasts can't do—they turn muddy and bitter.

In winter, a light roast might feel too delicate. You can push it by steeping a little longer or using a metal filter to add body. I've also found that a pinch of salt can cut any lingering sharpness, but that's a hack some purists will frown at. Try it—you might surprise yourself.