Volatile analysis of Botrytis contaminated grapes using headspace solid phase microextraction GC-MS

The dealcoholized wine sector is experiencing strong market growth, driven by increasing consumer demand.

AIM: Patterns in data obtained from wine chemical and sensory evaluations are difficult to infer using classical statistics.

Volatile thiols play a key role in the aromatic expression of white wines, contributing to notes such as passion fruit, grapefruit, and herbal nuances [1]. These compounds, present as non-volatile precursors in grapes, require enzymatic activation to be released and realize their aromatic potential.

In recent decades, sustainability has risen to prominence across various industries, including agriculture, spurred by initiatives such as the new common agricultural policy and the farm to fork strategy within the European Union. Among agricultural activities, viticulture stands as a crucial player in sustainability, intertwining environmental, social, and economic dimensions, as exemplified by the OIV general principles of sustainable viticulture. Italy, one of the main players in the global wine market, has long been making efforts towards the introduction of sustainability-oriented practices and certifications.

The grapes producing and wine making regions are différent in their use of agricultural, industrial or agroindustrial means. These means are quite often very original and/or specialised; and lately are also quite competitive. Such means are being defined with increased accuracy in the delimitation and definition of its characteristics (Paneque et al., 1996 a). Human action together with other Elements and Agents involved in the vine growing production (Reyner, 1989) over these means lead to agronomic systems with important characteristics. Finally, the transformation of the vine growing production, through different technologies (Fleet, 1992), results in the creation of products with a different acceptance and economical value in the market.