[nhebb]

From what I understand, the sense of taste is intertwined with the sense of smell.

https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-connection-between-taste-a...

[shas3]

It definitely is. I know a relative who lost their sense of smell and they also report being unable to taste anything other than plain salt, sweet, pepper-heat, sour, and bitter. They have lost the ability to taste spices, recognize different types of sour, etc.