Distinguished European flavouring, getting bearings (7)
I believe the answer is:
eminent
'distinguished' is the definition.
(synonyms)
I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for eminent that I've seen before include "Famous and respected" , "Respected; outstanding" , "Noted" , "Outstanding or distinguished (7)" , "Notable, outstanding" .)