Exploring the aroma profiles and color characteristics of chardonnay wines from the eastern foothills of Ningxia Helan Mountain in China: A Flavoromics approach

This study assessed the chemosensory characteristics of Chardonnay wines from the eastern foothills of the Ningxia Helan Mountain, China. Using Check-All-That-Apply (CATA) and Descriptive Analysis (DA), 29 wines were categorized into lively (QTX and XX sub-regions, marked by citrus and floral aroma) and implicit (YN subregion, marked by truffle and kerosene aroma) aroma styles. GC-Quadrupole-MS and GC-Orbitrap-MS identified 191 volatile compounds. Subsequent OPLS-DA analysis underscored those volatile compounds, including 1-hexanol, 2-phenylethyl ester, butanedioic acid, diethyl ester, and phenylacetaldehyde, likely form the fundamental volatile framework of the distinct aroma styles. HPLC-QqQ-MS/MS analysis identified 26 non-volatile phenolic compounds. Wines from the YN region exhibited a notable yellowish hue, likely due to their higher flavanol content. This study offers insights into Chardonnay wines' chemistry and sensory traits, guiding vintners to optimize viticulture and oenology practices, and empowering consumers to select wines based on unique aromas and quality.