Strategies for the sensorial optimization of alcohol-free wines

Abstract

De-alcoholized wines are currently experiencing an increasing demand, but are also being discussed very controversially at this time. The de-alcoholization process is usually carried out by distillation processes under vacuum. The treatment is accompanied by a series of changes in terms of analytical and sensory parameters of the wines. Ethanol has a very complex and far ranging influence on the wine sensory character. Even more, the de-alcoholization process goes along with certain losses of aroma components. Several strategies were assessed to buffer and balance the effect of de-alcoholizing wines below 0.5% v/v. Compared to the addition of tannins and mannoproteins, sweetening showed clearer results on the panelist’s preference. The assessment of a commercial resin treatment to recover aroma from de-alcoholization process showed promising results.