A culinary connoisseur is someone who has a deep knowledge and appreciation of food and cooking. They are often referred to as gourmets, which is a term derived from the French word for 'TASTE'. Culinary connoisseurs have a refined palate and are able to identify subtle flavors and nuances in food. They are also knowledgeable about the history and culture of food and cooking, and can provide insight into the origins of certain dishes.