Identification of new volatile thiols in the aroma of Vitis vinifera L. var. Sauvignon blanc wines

Three new flavour-active mercapto-alcohols have been identified in Sauvignon blanc wines: 4-mercapto-4-methylpentan-2-ol, 3-mercaptohexan-1-ol and 3-mercapto-3-methylbutan-1-ol. The first two have a perception threshold of the order of 60 ng/l in an aqueous alcohol solution and their respective odours are reminiscent of citrus zest and grapefruit. The perception threshold of 3-mercapto-3-methylbutan-1-ol, with its odour of cooked leeks, is higher (1500 ng/l in the same solution). These three compounds may contribute towards the typical aroma of Sauvignon blanc wines. (C) 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.