The analysis of 3-alkyl-2-methoxypyrazines in Vitis vinifera grape must or wine at the low nanogram per liter level failed in several situations when applying a one-dimensional gas chromatographic analysis with mass spectrometric detection (GC-MS). Sample preparation methods such as headspace solid phase microextraction or solid phase extraction were convenient procedures, however lacking extraction selectivity for complex matrices. Analysis by comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography with mass spectrometric detection clearly demonstrated the potential for co-elution in such matrices and the risk for erroneous results when applying one-dimensional GC-MS. In one example, matrix problems would have been a challenge even for a comprehensive two-dimensional chromatographic approach with MS detection (GC×GC-MS). A solution to matrix problems was found by protonating the 3-alkyl-2-methoxypyrazines in acidic pH and sample clean-up using solid phase extraction with a mixed-mode polymeric cation-exchange sorbent. Quantification was performed by a stable isotope dilution assay, following analysis by on-line coupled high performance liquid chromatography with multidimensional gas chromatography and detection with mass spectrometry (on-line LC-MDGC-MS). This new approach allowed trace-level analysis of 3-alkyl-2-methoxypyrazines in grape musts and wines and is described for V. vinifera Sauvignon blanc, following 3-alkyl-2-methoxypyrazines concentrations during ripening and in the processed wines.
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