Effect of Combined Use of Benzothiadiazole and Methyl Jasmonate on Volatile Compounds of Monastrell Wine

Abstract

One effect of applying elicitors to plants is an increase in phenolic and volatile compound content. In this study, grapes treated at veraison with a combination of benzothiadiazole (BTH) and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) were vinified and the volatile composition of the resulting wines was analyzed. Results indicate that the combined application of BTH and MeJA to the grapes led to wines with a similar composition in higher alcohols and esters as wines made with untreated grapes. Treated grapes led to wines with a significantly higher concentration of terpenes, with some of the terpenes only detected in wines from treated grapes. A descriptive sensory analysis indicated that these differences in volatile composition could be detected in wines, with wines made from treated grapes having significantly greater fruity notes, aroma, and mouthfeel quality.