A sensory, chemical and consumer study of the peppery typicality of French gamay wines from cool-climate vineyards

Aim: Within the protected designation of origin (PDO) Côtes d’Auvergne, Gamay N wines express unique peppery notes that may reflect high levels of rotundone. We investigated the typicality of these wines by determining their sensory, chemical and consumer profiles. Methods and results: Twenty-one Gamay N wines from the 2013 vintage from four French wine-growing areas were assessed by a trained sensory panel (n = 8). Principal component analysis and hierarchical clustering of olfactory data were used to describe differences among regions and to select four wines for a consumer study (n = 87). Gamay N wines from Auvergne had more intense peppery notes and higher rotundone concentrations, two characteristics that showed a significant positive correlation. The large variability in rotundone among the 12 wines from Auvergne was attributed to ethanol content, which was correlated to the rotundone levels in the wines. Those who appreciate wines with a peppery sensory profile were generally managers and professionals who are willing to pay more for a bottle of wine. Conclusion: There were differences in sensory profile and rotundone concentrations in Gamay N wines from cool-climate vineyards. We also identified the consumption profile of those who appreciate peppery wines. Significance and impact of the study: Our results provide a scientific foundation for Auvergne grape growers to promote the typicality of their wines. This research also identifies the key elements for developing the Côtes d’Auvergne wine range and adapting products to consumer profiles