"""Turmeric is mildly aromatic and has scents of orange or ginger. It has a pungent, bitter flavor."""

Erm, I find that it is pungent and slightly bitter. Perhaps I just have better tumeric than you do?

I do also find it bitter, it gives a taste even if not strong. But yes, it is mostly used as colourant, like other cuisines use saffron. But if you put enough turmeric to something you know how it should taste I'm sure you'd find the difference.