Role of certain volatile thiols in the bouquet of aged champagne wines

J Agric Food Chem. 2003 Feb 12;51(4):1016-20. doi: 10.1021/jf020755k.

Abstract

A method for the specific extraction of volatile thiols by use of p-hydroxymercuribenzoate has made it possible to identify certain flavor-active volatile thiols in Champagne wines. Benzenemethanethiol, 2-furanmethanethiol, and ethyl 3-mercaptopropionate were present in these wines at concentrations considerably higher than their perception thresholds. Their concentrations increased gradually in proportion to the bottle aging period and sharply as a result of disgorging. The contribution of these volatile thiols to the empyreumatic nuances of the bouquet of aged Champagne wines was demonstrated for the first time.

MeSH terms

  • 3-Mercaptopropionic Acid / analysis
  • Odorants / analysis*
  • Smell
  • Sulfhydryl Compounds / analysis*
  • Time Factors
  • Volatilization
  • Wine / analysis*

Substances

  • Sulfhydryl Compounds
  • methylmercaptan
  • 3-Mercaptopropionic Acid