Odour detection threshold and consumer rejection of 1,1,6‐trimethyl‐1,2‐dihydronaphthalene in 1‐year‐old R iesling wines

Background and Aims This study quantified consumer perspective by applying the detection threshold ( DT ) and consumer rejection threshold ( CRT ) methods to 1,1,6‐trimethyl‐1,2‐dihydronaphthalene ( TDN ) in 1‐year‐old R iesling wines. Methods and Results Untrained white wine consumers ( n  = 36) performed DT and CRT determination in 2010 and 2011 R ieslings spiked with TDN . Using a triangle test or a best estimate value, the DT value in the 2010 R iesling was 20.6 or 35.8 μg TDN / L , respectively, while in the 2011 R iesling, the DT was 18.2 or 37.6 μg TDN / L , respectively. A consumer rejection threshold value of 157 μg TDN / L was found for the 2010 R iesling and of 82.4 μg TDN / L for the 2011 R iesling. Conclusions On a group mean basis, wine consumers orthonasally detected TDN aroma in 1‐year‐old R iesling wine at a concentration of ca. 18–20 μg/ L and accepted a concentration of up to ca 80–160 μg/ L , depending on the composition of the wine. Significance of the Study This study is the first to apply CRT analysis to determine consumer preference for TDN in R iesling wines. The use of two different wines confirmed an effect of composition on the orthonasal response to TDN . This information assists decisions in the blending and marketing of wine.