Influence of raspberry variety on the aromatic profile of raspberry Geist

Abstract

Serbia is the world's leading producer of raspberries which are mainly exported as frozen fruits. Changes in the world market’s demands resulted in new ways of use and processing of raspberries. As a consequence of these new trends, the production of raspberry spirit drinks has become more important. The quality of raspberry spirit drinks depends on the raw material (variety) and the processing way. Due to the specific and delicate aroma, raspberries are a very interesting raw material for the production of spirit drink obtained by maceration of unfermented berries (Geist). According to the EU Regulation, Raspberry Geist is obtained exclusively by maceration of unfermented fruits and distillation. Therefore, it does not contain volatiles formed during fermentation, but exclusively those originating from the fruits, and to a lesser extent those formed during distillation. By analysis of three monovarietal Raspberry Geists, produced from three raspberry varieties (Willamette, Meeker, Tulameen), 133 volatile compounds classified into 12 classes were identified and quantified. The highest concentrations had ingredients originating from fruits (C13-norisoprenoids, aldehydes, terpenes, ketones, lactones). Among them, α-ionone and β-ionone had the highest concentration in all varietal Geists. Varietal Geists of Willamette and Meeker contained more α-ionone than the Geist of Tulameen. The opposite trend was found in terms of the content of β-ionone. The Willamette Geist had the highest concentrations of nonanal, decanal, α-terpineol, 2-heptanone, and 2 lactones (δ-decalactone and γ-dodecalactone). Tulameen Geist had the highest shares of 2 sesquiterpens (β-caryophyllene and α-caryophyllene) in total aromatic substances. Various aromatic profiles of varietal Geists affected the existence of fine differences in sensory characteristics of the products. All varietal Geists had a characteristic raspberry flavor. However, Geist of Willamette had an extra creamy note, Geist of Meeker had piney, terpenic character, while Geist of Tulameen was very fruity and most resembled raspberries.