The content and distribution of terpene compounds in different parts of berries of grape varieties selected in Republic of Moldova

Abstract

The current study aims to explore the aromatic composition of three grape varieties of local selection from republic of Moldova (Startovyi, Viorica and muscat de Ialoveni). The grapes were submitted to spectrophotometric analysis for quantitative determination of free and bound terpenes and to gas chromatography coupled with mass-spectrometry (GC/MS) for identification of compounds. By the GC/MS analysis were determined 30 volatile compounds, including: terpenes, alcohols, esters, aldehydes and cetones. After the spectrophotometric analysis it was concluded that Viorica is the variety with the less aromatic potential. The ratio between the bound and free terpenes varies in dependence of location in the grape berry, the highest value was attend in the berry skins. This results confirmed the importance of maceration to the aroma quality of white wines.