Effect of Different Vinification Techniques on the Concentration of Volatile Aroma Compounds and Sensory Profile of Malvazija Istarska Wines

Abstract

The majority of chemical compounds that contribute to varietal aroma originate from grape skin. To investigate the differences between volatile aroma compounds when different maceration conditions are applied, a total of six vinification treatments were carried out on Malvazija istarska (Vitis vinifera L.) variety, non-maceration control treatment (C), pre-fermentative two days cryomaceration treatment at 8 °C (CRYO), seven days maceration treatment at 16 °C (M7), 14 days maceration treatment at 16 °C (M14), and prolonged post-fermentative maceration treatments at 16 °C for 21 day (M21) and 42 days (M42). Wines were subjected to GC/MS and sensory analysis. Obtained results showed that prolonged post-fermentative maceration treatments contained the highest concentration of total volatile aroma compounds, precisely monoterpenes, alcohols, and other esters. Contrary, C and CRYO wines resulted in highest concentration of ethyl and acetate esters, and fatty acids. In addition, sensory analysis showed that longer maceration treatment wines (M14, M21, M42) were characterized by more aroma complexity, varietal flowery typicity, pronounced fruitiness, with accentuated dried fruit, moderate honey, and herbal notes. Obtained results can provide valuable information to producers when choosing an appropriate vinification technique based on the desired wine style which may lead to a further diversification of white wine market.