Comparison of an Offline SPE–GC–MS and Online HS–SPME–GC–MS Method for the Analysis of Volatile Terpenoids in Wine

The aroma profile is an important marker for wine quality. Various classes of compounds are responsible for the aroma of wine, and one such class is terpenoids. In the context of this work, a validated gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) method for the quantitation of terpenoids in red and white wine using headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS–SPME) and solid-phase extraction (SPE) was established. Calibrations were performed in the respective base wine using both sample preparation methods. The linearity, precision and accuracy evaluated for the respective matrices were excellent for both sample preparations. However, the HS–SPME approach was more sensitive and more accurate. For both sample preparations, the quantification limits were lower than the odor thresholds in wine. The terpenoid concentrations (µg/L) were evaluated for 13 white wines using both sample preparation methods. Importantly, the online HS–SPME approach was more sensitive than the offline SPE method. The major terpenoids identified in the white wines evaluated were linalool (0.2–63 µg/L), geraniol (nd–66 µg/L) and α-terpineol (nd–85 µg/L).