Influence of prolonged maceration on phenolic compounds, volatile profile and sensory properties of wines from Minutolo and Verdeca, two Apulian white grape varieties

Prolonged maceration was applied to two Apulian white grape cultivars, Minutolo and Verdeca. The impact of prolonged maceration (up to six months) on the quality of the wines was evaluated through characterization of phenolic, volatile and sensory profiles. Macerated wines presented a peak of extraction after 4 months, followed by a decrease probably due to precipitation/reabsorption. Extraction of seed phenols occurred during longer maceration times. Volatile profile was also modified, showing a different behavior at different maceration times. Oxidation and aging compounds appeared during maceration, that are unusual for traditional white wines. Furthermore, maceration successfully enhanced varietal identity of Minutolo. The terpene profile of Minutolo wines changed during maceration, with a maximum of terpenols after 1 month of maceration, while longer maceration added a pattern of oxidized terpenes. Sensory analysis highlighted clearly distinct profiles of wines, according to both cultivar and maceration time. A good attitude was observed of both varieties to undergo maceration. In particular, Verdeca appeared suitable for longer maceration times, with flowery, citrus and apricot notes after 4 months, while enhanced apricot notes were perceived after 6 months. On the other hand, Minutolo wine after 6 months of maceration was characterized by a marked astringency and peach flavor.