Various tastes that are present in a food or beverage, and they help to create its overall flavor profile. There are five primary flavor notes that form the foundation of most flavors :

Sweet: A pleasant, sugary taste that is often associated with fruits, desserts, and other sweet foods.

Sour: A tangy or acidic taste that is often associated with citrus fruits, vinegar, and other sour foods.

Salty: A taste that is associated with salt and is often used to enhance the flavor of savory foods.

Bitter: A taste that is often associated with coffee, tea, and certain vegetables, and is often used to balance sweet or sour flavors.

Umami: A savory, meaty taste that is often associated with foods like cheese, mushrooms, and soy sauce.

Flavors can also contain various secondary and tertiary notes, such as spicy, herbal, floral, or smoky, which can add depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile.