霉味
Term · Tasting
mouldy taste
Literal meaning
mould taste / smell
Definition#
A mouldy, mildewed smell or taste left by mould growth on tea that has been kept damp (霉变, méibiàn). Unlike storage odour (仓味), which fades with airing, a true mould taint persists after re-drying and through repeated infusions. It is a defect, not a sign of age.
Translation and usage#
| Language | Use | Alternatives & cautions |
|---|---|---|
| English | mouldy taste translation |
Also acceptable
Avoid aged aroma aged aroma (陈香) is a positive note; 霉味 is a defect |
| Deutsch | Schimmelgeschmack translation |
Also acceptable
Avoid Altersaroma entspricht 陈香, nicht dem Fehler 霉味 |
| Русский | плесневый привкус translation |
Also acceptable
Avoid выдержанный аромат это 陈香, а не дефект |
| 简体字 | 霉味 | |
| 繁體字 | 霉味 | Regional usage
|
| 日本語 | カビ臭 |
Common confusions#
- Sold or excused as "old-tea taste" in humid-stored pu'er; trade and health writers distinguish a clean aged note from mould, which does not air out.
- Babelcarp notes the homophone 美味 (měiwèi, delicious) differs only in tone.