Insight on Lugana wines flavor with a new LC-MS method for the detection of polyfunctional thiols

The analysis of important aroma compounds, such as polyfunctional thiols, requires a reliable and straightforward method. Despite advances in odorant detection, each method currently involves lengthy and complex sample preparation. In this paper, we present a novel high-throughput method that includes derivatization with ebselen, SPE purification, and LC-MS analysis for the quantification of 15 thiols with enological relevance, as well as its comparison with a recently developed QuEChERS-based method. Furthermore, the analysis of 43 Lugana wines was conducted to gain insight into the thiolic composition of this typical Italian wine characterized by tropical flavors and to demonstrate the efficacy of this fast, reliable, and environmentally friendly method. • An improved method is employed for the detection of Ebselen derivatized thiols in wine. • 96-wells SPE allows pre-purification and concentration using smaller amount of wine • 15 important thiols were quantified in Lugana wine