Comparison of Monoterpene Constituents in Traminette, Gewürztraminer, and Riesling Winegrapes

Abstract

Monoterpenes important to the aroma characterization of grapes and wine were investigated in three cultivars: Gewürztraminer, Riesling, and Traminette, a Gewürztraminer hybrid. The comparison was undertaken to determine the similarities in aromatic profile and determine a basis for further research with Traminette as a quality white hybrid winegrape grown in regions of the eastern and midwestern United States. Results indicate that Gewürztraminer and Traminette have similar monoterpene constituents with the very potent floral odorant, <i>cis</i>-rose oxide comprising 13 to 35% of total monoterpenes, respectively. Traminette was found to have nearly twice the concentration of monoterpenes as Gewürztraminer and Riesling that were grown in the same vineyard. Riesling volatiles consisted of many of the same monoterpenes as Gewürztraminer and Traminette; however, the Riesling fruit aroma profile was dominated by norisoprenoids.