Quantification of carboxylic acids and inorganic ions in wine samples using ion chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry

This study introduces a one-pot analytical method for simultaneous quantification of carboxylic acids (CAs) and inorganic ions in wine, using ion chromatography with conductimetric detection coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (IC/CD-HRMS). The method requires a single injection and minimal sample preparation (dilution and filtration), achieving full separation within 30 min. Calibration ranged from 0.025 to 11.25 mg L −1 with coefficients of determination (R 2 ) exceeding 0.987 for all analytes. The method exhibited detection limits in the low μg L −1 range, suitable for trace-level quantification of key wine constituents. Intra-day accuracy was approximately 2 %, and precision remained below 4 % for all compounds. Matrix effects were low to moderate for most analytes, and recovery rates ranged from 80.6 % to 138.9 %, confirming the robustness of the method across diverse wine matrices. Applied to six commercial wine samples (three red and three white), the method successfully quantified a broad range of CAs ( e.g., acetic, tartaric, malic) and inorganic ions ( e.g., potassium, calcium, sulfate, free sulfite), reflecting variations in winemaking practices and composition. This combined IC/CD-HRMS strategy provides rapid, accurate, and reliable multi-analyte profiling without the need for derivatization, organic solvents, or extensive sample treatment. Its analytical performance and operational simplicity make it a promising tool for routine wine analysis, relevant to both oenological quality control and environmental compliance. • IC/CD-HRMS quantifies CAs and ions in wine in under 30 min; • One-shot analysis with minimal sample prep and high precision; • LODs in low μg L −1 , recoveries between 80.6 % and 138.9 %; • Calibration range: 0.025–11.25 mg L −1 , R 2 > 0.987 for all analytes; • Applied to 6 wines for oenological and environmental insights.