Macrowine 2021
IVES 9 IVES Conference Series 9 An overview of wine sensory characterization: from classical descriptive analysis to the emergence of novel profiling techniques

An overview of wine sensory characterization: from classical descriptive analysis to the emergence of novel profiling techniques

Abstract

The wine industry requires coexistence between tradition and innovation to meet consumers’ preferences. Sensory science allows the objective quantification of consumers’ understanding of a product and subjective feedback of consumer’s perception through acceptance or rejection of stimulus or even describing emotions evoked [1]. To measure sensations, emotions and liking, and their dynamics over time, time-intensity methods are crucial tools with growing interest in sensory science [2].

AIM: This research aimed to give a big picture of the latest investigation about sensory methods and their variations, and the successful application of sensory devices and immersive contexts in wine evaluation.

METHODS: An overview of all the recent findings in sensory science methodologies, including sensory descriptive tests (quantitative descriptive analysis (ADQ), flash profiling, projective mapping and napping, check-all-that-apply (CATA), open-ended questions, preferred attribute elicitation method, polarised sensory positioning, free –choice profiling, sorting) [3], sensory discriminative tests (triangle test, tetrad test, duo-trio test, paired comparison, intensity scales, forced-choice tests) [4], sensory hedonic tests (hedonic methods, consumers’ preference, and emotions), time-intensity methods (dual-attribute time-intensity, multiple-attribute time-intensity, temporal dominance of sensations), instrumental sensory devices and immersive techniques (e-nose, e-tongue, virtual reality, gaming) and sensory data treatment are reviewed.

RESULTS: This study is the first attempt to characterize sensory methods and techniques, from classical descriptive analysis to the emergence of novel profiling techniques, comparing the different approaches and predicting some future research on this topic.

CONCLUSIONS:

The characterization of sensory methods and techniques have been investigated in the literature. However, there is a limited articulation between descriptive, discriminative, hedonic tests and time-intensity methods as well as instrumental sensory devices and immersive techniques. Furthermore, statistical techniques in sensory science play a crucial role and increasingly allow a more precise sensory data analysis and more adapted to a complex product such as wine.

DOI:

Publication date: September 24, 2021

Issue: Macrowine 2021

Type: Article

Authors

Catarina Marques, Alfredo,  Alto Douro, Elisete, CORREIA, Alice, VILELA,

CITAB, Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, Department of Biology and Environment, School of Life Sciences and Environment, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, P-5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
CORREIA, Center for Computational and Stochastic Mathematics (CEMAT), Dep. of Mathematics, IST-UL, Av. Rovisco Pais 1, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal;
VILELA, Chemistry Research Centre (CQ-VR), Dep. of Biology and Environment, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal;

Contact the author

Keywords

sensory analysis; instrumental sensory devices; immersive techniques; statistical techniques; wine

Citation

Related articles…

Reconnaissance des vins de terroir par les consommateurs

Approaching the notion of terroir wines at the level of consumption poses a problem due to the absence of a regulatory definition of the term terroir, which is not taken up either at Community level or at national level (the Consumer Code in particular does not define not the land). However, whatever definition is adopted for the terroir, we can retain at the consumer level an identification of the terroir through the different geographical mentions appearing on the labels or on the shelves of the wine shelf.

The effects of reducing herbicides in New Zealand vineyards

Herbicides are commonly sprayed in the vine row to prevent competition with vines for water and minerals and to keep weeds from growing into the bunch zone. Sprays are applied before budbreak and reapplied multiple times during the season to keep the undervine bare. There is growing concern about the negative effects of herbicides on humans and the environment, and weeds in New Zealand have developed resistance to herbicides. Therefore, it is imperative that we reduce our reliance on herbicides in viticulture and incorporate methods that do not engender resistance.

Skin And Seed Extracts Differently Behave Towards Salivary Proteins

Background: Polyphenols extracted from skins and seeds showed different sensory attributes including astringency and bitterness. In previous studies, it has been demonstrated that extracts obtained either from skins or seeds interact differently with salivary proteins.

High resolution climatic zoning of the Portuguese viticultural regions

Viticulture and winemaking represent a key sector for the Portuguese economy. As grapevines are strongly governed by atmospheric factors, climate change may impose a major threat to this crop. In this study, the current-past (1950-2000) and future (2041-2070) climatic conditions in Portugal are analyzed using a number of bioclimatic indices, including a new categorized index (CatI).

Improving shelf life of viticulture-relevant biocontrol and biostimulant microbes using CITROFOL® AI as liquid carrier

Bacillus velezensis and Trichoderma harzianum are relevant microorganisms used in viticulture as biocontrol agents against pathogens of trunk (e.g. Phaeoacremonium minimum), leaves (e.g. Plasmopara viticola) or fruit (e.g. Botrytis cinerea), or as biostimulants, improving the resilience of plants against biotic or abiotic stressors through different direct and non-direct interactions.
In this biotechnological approach, formulation plays a crucial role. Controlling water activity in the product, thus stabilising microbial viability is key to ensuring effective application. We present the benefits of the citrate ester CITROFOL® AI (triethyl citrate) as a novel bio-based carrier liquid in microbial formulations. CITROFOL® AI is safe for humans and the environment, thus offering a promising base for sustainable treatments in viticulture.