Cicerone Certified Beer Server Practice Exam

Which of the following is a fundamental taste?

1. Citrus

2. Peppermint

3. Spicy

4. Umami

The correct answer is: Umami

Umami is recognized as one of the five fundamental tastes, alongside sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. It is often described as a savory or meaty flavor and is primarily associated with glutamate, which is commonly found in ingredients like meats, cheeses, and certain vegetables such as mushrooms. The identification of umami as a distinct taste helps to enhance our understanding of flavor profiles in food and beverages, including beer, where it can contribute to a more complex tasting experience. The other options you mentioned do not align with the concept of fundamental tastes. Citrus refers to a flavor characteristic typically described within the context of fruits like oranges and lemons, rather than a basic taste sensation. Peppermint is more associated with a particular aromatic experience rather than a primary taste. Spicy is also not classified as a basic taste; instead, it refers to the heat sensation experienced from compounds like capsaicin found in chili peppers.