Project title
Compilation of databases of aroma compouds in the wines of six important cultivars

Project leader
Marais, J Burton, S Van Rensburg, P

Institution
ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij University of Cape Town University of Stellenbosch. Institute for Wine Biotechnology

Project description
The ability to guarantee authenticity and detect fraud in foods and beverages is becoming increasingly important internationally. The recent scandal concerning illegal flavour addition to Sauvignon blanc wines, and persistent rumours concerning similar actions in other cultivar wines, reflected badly on the local industry. A repetition could seriously damage the export drive and lead to a loss of consumer confidence locally as well. Against this background the South African wine Industry was compelled to intervene and launch an investigation into ways and means of detecting aroma fraud in wine. The ability to detect fraudulent addition of aroma constituents to wine can only be based on an extensive knowledge of what naturally occurs in wine, hence the call for a research project on the aroma profiles of a number of cultivar wines.
The aim of this project is to compile comprehensive databases (?finger-prints?) on aroma components in wines of the most important South African cultivars, originating from the various geographical regions. Simultaneously, new analytical methods will be investigated and developed for future analysis of wine volatiles. In addition, the composition of relevant flavour essences (commercial) and plant extracts will be examined to supply support data. The results of the research will assist authorities in future to detect fraud and prosecute offenders.

Final report
http://www.sawislibrary.co.za/dbtextimages/MaraisJ31.pdf

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