Connoisseurs have terms for describing the characteristics of a brew. Generally, subtle flavors and aromas are described as “notes.” Top or base notes are good, off-notes are bad. Knowing the lingo can help you analyze and appreciate your coffee (and impress your coffee-drinking friends).
Astringent
Dry, puckering feel of unripe fruit or over-brewed tea.
Balanced
Ideal blend of sour and bitter; not dull or flat.
Body
Feeling of fullness and weight in the mouth.
Cereal or grainy
Like a cooked wheat cereal.
Cooked
Like coffee that has been heated too long.
Earthy
Hints of aromas and flavors similar to potato skins or root vegetables. (But dirty is a harsh off-note.)
Green
Has two meanings. A green/sharp or bright coffee is clean and light, with pleasing acidity. A green/under-ripe coffee suggests unripe beans.
Nutty
Like fresh toasted nuts.
Papery
Like damp cardboard.
Woody
Like damp popsicle sticks.