Terpenes

terpenes (GB)

Large group of chemical compounds that are the main constituent of essential oils. In the narrower sense, these are hydrocarbon compounds, whereas all those containing oxygen are considered terpenoids. These colourless aromatic substances also occur in the form of aldehydes, ketones and alcohols in numerous oils, balsams and plant resins. Terpene derivatives are for example camphor, citral, linalool, menthol, nerol (geraniol), pinene and phytol. Carotenoids (a large group of pigments found in the animal and plant kingdoms) also belong to the terpenes. Terpenes are present in grapes in free form, or are also formed in bound form during vinification.

They give the grapes or the wine a characteristic and easily recognisable aroma (primary aroma). They are particularly pronounced in Muskateller and Traminer varieties (especially Gewürztraminer) with a content of 1 to 4 mg/l and to a lesser extent also in Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. Terpenes are also found in oak wood, especially of American origin. The typical smell is often described in wine terms as balsamic, floral (roses) or spicy. Some terpenes are used in viticulture as pheromones for insect control.

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Terpenes

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