What is "aroma" in coffee?

Aroma in coffee refers specifically to the smell or fragrance of brewed coffee, which is an essential aspect of the overall flavor experience. The aroma plays a pivotal role in how we perceive taste, as a significant portion of what we identify as flavor actually comes from the scents that we detect through our sense of smell. When coffee is brewed, various compounds are released that interact with our olfactory receptors, contributing to the rich and complex notes often described by coffee enthusiasts. This sensory experience enhances our enjoyment and appreciation of coffee, making aroma a key element in the tasting process.

The other choices relate to different aspects of the coffee experience but do not define aroma. For example, sweetness and bitterness pertain more to the taste sensations perceived on the palate, while temperature addresses how coffee is served rather than its inherent scent characteristics.