connoisseur
n.n. someone who has a very good knowledge of a specific subject, especially something like food, wine, or art. You use this to describe a person who can tell the difference between high-quality and cheap versions of a product.
n. a person with extensive knowledge or experience in a particular field, especially one involving aesthetic or sensory appreciation. Often implies a level of expertise that allows for the discernment of subtle quality differences.
A true connoisseur can tell the difference between two types of wine.
The restaurant's menu is designed for a connoisseur of rare cheeses, featuring varieties from across Europe.
While the general public may prefer mass-produced goods for their convenience, a connoisseur seeks out artisanal craftsmanship and the unique characteristics that define a specific batch or vintage.
Around 1705–1715, from French connoisseur, from the verb connoître (obsolete pre-1835 spelling of connaître (“to know”)).