Optimization of a gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric method for detection and quantitation of the chemical indicators of atypical aging in wine

Abstract

The chemical composition of wine represents and extremely complex matrix, where a specific compound of interest may often be presented in only trace amounts in the midst of many other components of much higher concentration, as well as many other trace components. In order to isolate, identify and quantify a particular compound, it is advantageous to simplify the matrix and optimize a method for extraction and separation of the compound, allowing for the achievement of ideal sensitivity, precision and level of detection and/or quantification. In this work, a complete method for the detection, identification and quantitation of the chemical compound 2-aminoacetophenone (2-AAP), is presented, from initial solvent extraction to analysis via gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). 2-AAP is believed to be responsible for the wine defect known as atypical aging (ATA). With minor modification this method could also be used to target other compounds typically found in the wine matrix, particularly those with a chemical structure similar to that of 2-AAP.