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Original Article
Amelioration of smoke taint in wine by treatment with commercial fining agents
Article first published online: 24 AUG 2012
DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-0238.2012.00200.x
© 2012 Australian Society of Viticulture and Oenology Inc.
Additional Information
How to Cite
FUDGE, A.L., SCHIETTECATTE, M., RISTIC, R., HAYASAKA, Y. and WILKINSON, K.L. (2012), Amelioration of smoke taint in wine by treatment with commercial fining agents. Australian Journal of Grape and Wine Research, 18: 302–307. doi: 10.1111/j.1755-0238.2012.00200.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 23 SEP 2012
- Article first published online: 24 AUG 2012
- Manuscript received: 12 February 2012; Revised manuscript received: 2 July 2012; Accepted: 12 July 2012
Keywords:
- activated carbon;
- amelioration;
- fining agent;
- guaiacol;
- smoke taint;
- wine
Abstract
Background and Aims: Fermentation of smoke-affected grapes can lead to wines that exhibit objectionable smoke-related sensory attributes, i.e. smoke taint. Fining agents are routinely used at different stages of the winemaking process to address constituents that are considered to adversely affect juice or wine quality. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of commercial fining agents in reducing the concentration of volatile phenols and the intensity of sensory attributes associated with smoke-tainted wine.
Methods and Results: Smoke-affected wines were treated with a range of fining agents, two of which, an activated carbon and a synthetic mineral, were found to appreciably ameliorate the taint. Treated wines contained a significantly lower level of smoke-derived volatile phenols and exhibited less intense ‘smoke’ and ‘cold ash’ aromas, ‘smoky’ flavour and ‘ashy’ aftertaste, compared with that of untreated (control) wines; with little or no impact on wine colour.
Conclusions: Selected fining agents can ameliorate smoke taint in wine. Whereas most fining agents showed poor specificity towards the wine components responsible for smoke taint, some, an activated carbon in particular, were highly effective.
Significance of the Study: This research identifies a treatment that can be used to mitigate the impact of grapevine exposure to smoke on wine composition and sensory properties.