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Sensory Evaluation of Sweet Wines Produced by Stopping Fermentation with Octanoic and Decanoic Acids
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Discrimination of Romanian Wines Based on Phenolic Composition and Identification of Potential Phenolic Biomarkers for Wine Authenticity and Traceability
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Nanostrategy for Selective Ethyl Carbamate Removal from Fermented Alcoholic Beverages via Molecular Imprinting Technology
Journal Description
Beverages
Beverages
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on beverage research and development published bimonthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), FSTA, CAPlus / SciFinder, PubAg, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Food Science and Technology) / CiteScore - Q2 (Food Science)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 19.1 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 4.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.0 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.3 (2023)
Latest Articles
Design and Production of an Instant Coffee Product Based on Greek Coffee Oil: Study of the Effect of Storage Conditions on Product Aroma and Quality
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030088 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2025
Abstract
The objective of this study was to obtain and evaluate a coffee aroma extract/oil with sensorial attributes close to the original brew of Greek coffee for use in an instant Greek coffee powder. The oil was obtained directly from commercial Greek coffee by
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The objective of this study was to obtain and evaluate a coffee aroma extract/oil with sensorial attributes close to the original brew of Greek coffee for use in an instant Greek coffee powder. The oil was obtained directly from commercial Greek coffee by solid-liquid extraction using hexane as a solvent and treated with a series of hexane-ethanol mixtures (0:10, 1:4, 1:9) to remove the intense roasted flavor of the crude coffee oil obtained by hexane; the de-oiled coffee was used for the recovery of water-soluble compounds, and the produced water extract was freeze-dried. The aromatic volatiles of the coffee oil samples were analyzed by using a purge-and-trap device coupled to GC-MS, as well as sensory analysis. The instant Greek coffee powder was produced by mixing the freeze-dried base (74.4%) with the extract derived after treatment of the crude oil with hexane-ethanol mixture 1:4 (18.2%) and foaming agent (7.4%). Two different materials were studied as bases: instant coffee (F3Gr-D) and ground Greek coffee (reference sample, CGr). The shelf-life stability of the produced powders was examined at three storage temperatures (25, 45, 60 °C). Instrumental analysis (purge-and-trap GC-MS) of aroma and sensory analysis (aroma, taste, staling, total sensory quality on a 1–9 hedonic scale) was conducted. Aroma loss (furfuryl alcohol, furfural, dimethyl pyrazines, ethyl methyl pyrazines) and scores for sensory attributes during storage were modeled using 1st and 0-order reaction kinetics, respectively. The storage temperature effect was expressed by the Arrhenius model (activation energy Ea). According to the results, the developed instant coffee powder presented satisfactorily the aroma characteristics of regular Greek coffee. The shelf life for the instant Greek coffee powder was estimated as 80 days (air packed) (based on 20% retention of furfuryl alcohol that was the most abundant aromatic volatile of Greek coffee aroma, ground as well as extract oil).
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Artisanal and Traditional Beverages)
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Open AccessArticle
Aromatic Profiles and Vineyard Location: Uncovering Malvasija Dubrovačka Wines
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Domagoj Ivan Žeravica, Ivana Tomaz, Darko Preiner, Iva Šikuten, Domagoj Stupić, Ana Jeromel and Edi Maletić
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030087 - 9 Jun 2025
Abstract
The quality and sensory characteristics of wines are influenced by several factors, including grape variety, local climate, soil conditions, viticultural practices, and vintage. This study investigates the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Malvasija Dubrovačka wines, which include various chemical groups such as terpenes,
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The quality and sensory characteristics of wines are influenced by several factors, including grape variety, local climate, soil conditions, viticultural practices, and vintage. This study investigates the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Malvasija Dubrovačka wines, which include various chemical groups such as terpenes, esters, alcohols, acids, and C13-norisoprenoids. The aim was to investigate how vineyard location and vintage influence the VOC profiles of these wines in two consecutive vintages. Using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, 54 individual VOCs were identified and quantified. The results showed remarkable differences in the composition of VOCs, especially C13-norisoprenoids, terpenes, and acids, between the two vintages and the studied locations. Principal component analysis showed a significant influence of vineyard location on the composition of Malvasija Dubrovačka wines, a result that was reinforced by conventional descriptive analysis (CDA) of sensory testing.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Characterization of Alcoholic Beverages: Sensory, Chemical and Terroir Insights)
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Open AccessCommunication
Preliminary Characterization and Consumer Insights of Juice Enzymatically Extracted from North American Pawpaw (Asimina triloba)
by
Robert G. Brannan
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030086 - 9 Jun 2025
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This study reports for the first time parameters and consumer preferences about juice prepared from North American pawpaw fruit (Asimina triloba). Enzymatic extraction using a commercial preparation of pectinases, hemicellulases, and beta-glucanases (Pectinex® Ultra SP-L) significantly increased juice yield compared
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This study reports for the first time parameters and consumer preferences about juice prepared from North American pawpaw fruit (Asimina triloba). Enzymatic extraction using a commercial preparation of pectinases, hemicellulases, and beta-glucanases (Pectinex® Ultra SP-L) significantly increased juice yield compared to non-enzyme extraction, but enzyme concentration (0.05% vs. 0.1%) and acidification method (citric vs. tartaric acid) showed no significant differences. Sensory panelists found no significant differences between citric and tartaric acid acidified juices, or between juices prepared from fresh pawpaw and pawpaw stored refrigerated for 14 days. Blending pawpaw juice with fruit juices improved overall acceptability compared to blending with fruit purees. Consumer testing revealed no overall preference among five juice formulations (100% pawpaw juice, sweetened pawpaw juice, pawpaw juice with the addition of 10% apple, orange, or pineapple juice). Consumers highlighted the complex flavor profile of pawpaw, with sweet and bitter tastes, and melon, papaya, and pear flavors being most frequently identified. Sweetening the juice altered the flavor profile, masking sourness and certain flavors. Based on this preliminary study, challenges and opportunities were identified for the development of a pawpaw-based juice.
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Open AccessSystematic Review
The Gut–Brain Axis and Probiotics in Beverages and Liquid Preparations: A PRISMA Systematic Review on Cognitive Function Enhancement
by
Alfonso Filippone, Umberto Barbieri, Maria Rosaria Corbo, Milena Sinigaglia and Antonio Bevilacqua
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030085 - 6 Jun 2025
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The gut–brain axis links the health of the gut microbiota to cognitive function and mental well-being. Numerous studies suggest that probiotics, particularly strains belonging to Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp., can positively modulate memory, attention, and executive functions, contributing to the prevention of
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The gut–brain axis links the health of the gut microbiota to cognitive function and mental well-being. Numerous studies suggest that probiotics, particularly strains belonging to Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp., can positively modulate memory, attention, and executive functions, contributing to the prevention of cognitive decline. However, while the use of probiotic capsules and powders is widely documented, the role of probiotic beverages or liquid preparations in brain health remains poorly explored. This systematic review analyzes studies on the efficacy of probiotics in improving cognitive functions from 2020 to 2025, evaluating the potential of probiotic liquid preparations as a delivery vehicle. The results indicate that fermented beverages or liquid suspensions containing probiotics could improve the bioavailability of beneficial microorganisms, promoting synergistic effects with other bioactive components and facilitating treatment adherence. However, the current literature still has methodological limitations and there is a need for further clinical studies to validate the efficacy of this strategy. Probiotic supplementation through functional beverages could represent a promising innovation to improve cognitive health and counteract neurocognitive decline.
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Open AccessArticle
Unveiling the Regional Identity of Madeira Wine: Insights from Saccharomyces cerevisiae Strains Using Interdelta Analysis
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Mariangie M. Castillo, Nikol Parra, José S. Câmara and Mahnaz Khadem
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030084 - 6 Jun 2025
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The Demarcated Region of Madeira (DRM) is one of the oldest wine regions in Portugal, where the famous Madeira Wine (MW) is produced by spontaneous fermentation using endogenous yeasts. Several studies reported the role of endogenous Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains in the regional identity
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The Demarcated Region of Madeira (DRM) is one of the oldest wine regions in Portugal, where the famous Madeira Wine (MW) is produced by spontaneous fermentation using endogenous yeasts. Several studies reported the role of endogenous Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains in the regional identity of wines, but only a few studies have been published in the DRM. The PCR-Interdelta (Polymerase Chain Reaction-Interdelta) analysis is a reliable method for S. cerevisiae strain identification. Here, we report the S. cerevisiae strains isolated from six Vitis vinifera grape varieties, namely, Tinta Negra, Boal, Sercial, Verdelho, Malvasia de São Jorge, and Complexa, which are widely used in MW production. During the 2020 campaign, eleven samples were collected from licensed vineyards and a winery, and submitted to spontaneous microfermentations and yeast isolation. Of the 1452 isolates counted, 1367 (94.2%) presented morphological characteristics of S. cerevisiae. We randomly selected 330 isolates from the positive colonies for strain identification. First, the PCR-Interdelta was optimized in ten commercial strains, using δ2–δ12 and δ12–δ21 pairs of primers, and δ2–δ12 primers were selected to screen the 330 isolates. We detected three fermentative profiles and a total of 25 PCR-Interdelta patterns were obtained, representing 7.6% of intraspecific variability, starting with the first non-official collection. The findings underscore the pivotal role of S. cerevisiae strain diversity in shaping the regional identity and quality of wines, with molecular tools like PCR-Interdelta analysis proving essential for monitoring intraspecific variability.
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Open AccessArticle
Comparative Characterization of Phenolic Profile and Antioxidant Activity in Homemade and Commercial Jujube Vinegar
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Ana-Maria Stoenescu and Florin Stănică
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030083 - 4 Jun 2025
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The growing interest in functional foods has led to a heightened focus on the bioactive properties of different types of vinegar, including jujube vinegar, which has traditionally been valued for its health benefits. This study provides a comparative analysis of the chemical composition
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The growing interest in functional foods has led to a heightened focus on the bioactive properties of different types of vinegar, including jujube vinegar, which has traditionally been valued for its health benefits. This study provides a comparative analysis of the chemical composition and bioactive properties of homemade and commercial jujube vinegar, particularly emphasizing their phenolic profiles and antioxidant activities. Both vinegar samples were analyzed for their physico-chemical properties, phenolic compounds content, and organic acids using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. The results indicated that homemade jujube vinegar contained significantly higher levels of key bioactive compounds, including protocatechuic aldehyde > syringaldehyde > vanillic acid > caffeic acid > gallic acid > protocatechuic acid > chlorogenic acid > p-coumaric and quercetin, compared to the commercial vinegar. Such compounds are widely acknowledged for their antioxidant capacity, anti-inflammatory effects, and overall contributions to human health. The findings suggest that traditional production methods, raw material selection, and fermentation conditions enhance the nutritional potential of jujube vinegar.
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Open AccessArticle
Occurrence and Exposure Assessment of Mycotoxins from Beers Commercially Traded in Brazil
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Gilmara F. C. Penha, Carlos H. Corassin, Roice E. Rosim and Carlos A. F. Oliveira
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030082 - 4 Jun 2025
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Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by fungi that often contaminate food materials used in beer production, posing health risks to consumers. This study investigated the occurrence and levels of mycotoxins in commercial beers commercially available in São Paulo, Brazil, and assessed the
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Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by fungi that often contaminate food materials used in beer production, posing health risks to consumers. This study investigated the occurrence and levels of mycotoxins in commercial beers commercially available in São Paulo, Brazil, and assessed the estimated daily intake (EDI) of quantifiable mycotoxins. Sixty beer samples from different brands and compositions (barley malt, malt with corn, and malt with rice) were analyzed for deoxynivalenol (DON); aflatoxins (AFs) B1, B2, G1, and G2; ochratoxin A (OTA); T-2 toxin; fumonisins (F) (B1 and B2); and zearalenone (ZEN) using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. FB1 was quantified in all samples, while DON, ZEN, OTA, AFB1, and T-2 toxin were detected in 40, 65, 25, 20, and 10%, respectively. Mean levels of 2.38, 36.41, 0.19, 1.05, 0.78, and 0.47 ng/mL were observed for FB1, DON, ZEN, OTA, AFB1, and T-2 toxin, respectively. Mycotoxin co-occurrence was observed in 43 (71.7%) samples analyzed, with DON and FB1 as the most frequent combination (20%). The EDI values of individual mycotoxins were generally below tolerable daily intakes established by international agencies. However, the co-occurrence of up to four different mycotoxins in beers warrants concern on the possible interactive toxic effects of mycotoxin mixtures and reinforces the necessity of specific regulations for ready-to-drink beverages in Brazil.
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Open AccessArticle
Varietal Authentication of Brunello di Montalcino Wine Using a Minimal Panel of DNA Markers
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Maxwell K. Kibor, Monica Scali and Rita Vignani
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030081 - 3 Jun 2025
Abstract
Wine DNA fingerprinting (WDF), retrieved from the amplification of a wider panel of Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) marker mappings in the Vitis vinifera L. genome, was used to assess the monovarietal nature of Brunello di Montalcino wine. The reliability of the varietal assessment
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Wine DNA fingerprinting (WDF), retrieved from the amplification of a wider panel of Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) marker mappings in the Vitis vinifera L. genome, was used to assess the monovarietal nature of Brunello di Montalcino wine. The reliability of the varietal assessment was carried out by estimating the PI values associated with resolutive unrooted dendrograms depicting the correct varietal nature of different wines. As few as five SSR DNA markers associated with a PI value of one over a million or less, PI ≤ 10−6, can identify the purity of Sangiovese against Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Primitivo (Zinfandel), and genetic variants of the Sangiovese as plant references. WDF was used on other monovarietal wines obtained from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir to test the feasibility of the method. In blended wines, the test was able to trace the main varietal component in a three-variety blend, keeping the varietal fingerprint detectable when the main variety was at least 75% (v/v). The data confirm how local genetic variants of Sangiovese can be tracked in commercial wines, becoming, at wine makers’ demand, part of an evidence synthesis of geographical origin.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Analysis of Food and Beverages)
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From Words to Ratings: Machine Learning and NLP for Wine Reviews
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Iliana Ilieva, Margarita Terziyska and Teofana Dimitrova
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030080 - 1 Jun 2025
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Wine production is an important sector of the food industry in Bulgaria, contributing to both economic development and cultural heritage. The present study aims to show how natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning methods can be applied to analyze expert-written Bulgarian wine
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Wine production is an important sector of the food industry in Bulgaria, contributing to both economic development and cultural heritage. The present study aims to show how natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning methods can be applied to analyze expert-written Bulgarian wine descriptions and to extract patterns related to wine quality and style. Based on a bilingual dataset of reviews (in Bulgarian and English), semantic analysis, classification, regression and clustering models were used, which combine textual and structured data. The descriptions were transformed into numerical representations using a pre-trained language model (BERT), after which algorithms were used to predict style categories and ratings. Additional sentiment and segmentation analyses revealed differences between wine types, and clustering identified thematic structures in the expert language. The comparison between predefined styles and automatically derived clusters was evaluated using metrics such as Adjusted Rand Index (ARI) and Normalized Mutual Information (NMI). The resulting analysis shows that text descriptions contain valuable information that allows for automated wine profiling. These findings can be applied by a wide range of stakeholders—researchers, producers, retailers, and marketing specialists.
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Open AccessArticle
Comparative Analysis of Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity in Conventional, Civet, and Elephant Coffees: Is There a Definitive Authentication Marker of Elephant Coffee?
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Jan Hájíček, Gökçe Hoca, Matúš Várady, Petr Maršík, Adéla Fraňková and Jan Tauchen
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030079 - 1 Jun 2025
Abstract
Novel methods of coffee processing, including animal-assisted fermentation, are gaining popularity—among them, elephant dung coffee stands out for its rarity and high price, making it a likely target for adulteration. This study aims to discover candidate biomarkers for elephant coffee by comparing the
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Novel methods of coffee processing, including animal-assisted fermentation, are gaining popularity—among them, elephant dung coffee stands out for its rarity and high price, making it a likely target for adulteration. This study aims to discover candidate biomarkers for elephant coffee by comparing the chemical composition, antioxidant activity, and volatile profiles of Arabica coffee processed by three methods: conventional, civet-derived, and elephant-derived (all originated from Southeast Asia, medium roast). Analytical methods included HPLC-UV and GC-SPME-MS, along with in vitro antioxidant assays (DPPH, ORAC, ABTS, total phenolics, and total flavonoids). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to evaluate differences between the samples. While elephant coffee showed lower caffeine (0.93%) and antioxidant capacity across all assays, it was richer in selected volatile compounds, such as pyrazines (e.g., 3-ethyl-2,5-dimethylpyrazine; 3.73% RPA), 2- and 3-methybutanal (1.18 and 0.19% RPA), and furfuryl acetate (18.00% RPA; p < 0.05). These changes are likely to be due to fermentation in the gastrointestinal tract. Despite differences, no definitive biomarker of elephant coffee was found, suggesting that discrimination from other coffee samples may not be as simple as previous studies indicated. More studies with a higher number of samples that employ an extensive analytical approach (e.g., omics or NMR) to thoroughly analyze the phytochemical profile of coffee beans before and after digestion by the elephant are needed.
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(This article belongs to the Section Tea, Coffee, Water, and Other Non-Alcoholic Beverages)
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Exploring the Potential of Indigenous Grape Varieties for Sparkling Wine Production in the Hrvatska Istra Subregion (Croatia)
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Tomislav Plavša, Marijan Bubola, Ana Jeromel, Ivana Tomaz and Marin Krapac
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030078 - 30 May 2025
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Indigenous grape varieties from the Hrvatska Istra subregion (Croatia) represent a significant proportion of regional wine production. In this study, the potential of six indigenous varieties—Malvazija istarska, Garganja, Duranija, Surina, Hrvatica, and Teran—for the traditional method for the production of sparkling wines was
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Indigenous grape varieties from the Hrvatska Istra subregion (Croatia) represent a significant proportion of regional wine production. In this study, the potential of six indigenous varieties—Malvazija istarska, Garganja, Duranija, Surina, Hrvatica, and Teran—for the traditional method for the production of sparkling wines was evaluated. Several of these varieties are currently underutilized or neglected in contemporary viticulture. A total of 85 volatile aroma compounds, including acids, alcohols, esters, C13-norisoprenoids, and terpenes, were identified and quantified using SPME-Arrow-GC/MS. Sensory evaluation was conducted using a structured nine-point hedonic scale. Among the compounds identified, C13-norisoprenoids (notably β-damascenone, TPB, and TDN) and esters (including ethyl 3-methylbutanoate, ethyl butanoate, and ethyl hexanoate) were found to contribute most significantly to the overall aromatic profile of the sparkling wines. Sensory profiles varied distinctly among the varieties. Some varieties demonstrated pronounced aromatic and structural characteristics, making them suitable for monovarietal sparkling wine production, while others exhibited complementary sensory properties more appropriate for cuvées. This study represents the first comprehensive chemical and descriptive sensory profiling of sparkling wines produced from these Istrian indigenous grape varieties. These findings aim to support their valorization and integration into the broader spectrum of sparkling wine production, thereby enhancing their recognition and market potential.
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Open AccessSystematic Review
An Overview of 20 Years of Pisco Spirit Research: Trends and Gaps Revealed by a Systematic Review
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Erick Saldaña, Jennifer Alvarez, Jaime Laqui-Estaña, Karina Eduardo, Juan D. Rios-Mera, César Augusto Napa-Almeyda and Jhony Mayta-Hancco
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030077 - 27 May 2025
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Pisco is an emblematic spirit in Peru and Chile, made from fermented grapes, gaining growing scientific interest over the last two decades. This study aimed to map 20 years of research on Pisco through a systematic bibliometric review. A search was conducted in
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Pisco is an emblematic spirit in Peru and Chile, made from fermented grapes, gaining growing scientific interest over the last two decades. This study aimed to map 20 years of research on Pisco through a systematic bibliometric review. A search was conducted in the Scopus database covering the period from 2004 to 2024, applying the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology for the transparent selection of scientific articles. The search strategy considered titles, abstracts, and keywords, using the terms “Pisco” and “schnapps”, excluding unrelated fields such as geology (basin, seismic, fossil). The initial search yielded 360 records. After removing non-original articles (books, book chapters, conference papers, and reviews), 101 articles remained. A further screening excluded irrelevant studies (e.g., those referring to the city of Pisco rather than the beverage), resulting in 78 articles included for final analysis. It was observed that 19% of the studies focus on the history, culture, and appellation of origin; 14% on environmental sustainability; 10% on innovation and quality; and 9% on the bioactive properties of by-products. Other areas include extraction technologies (9%), distillation process modeling (8%), and marketing and economics (8%), among others. Recent trends are related to clean production practices. Thus, Pisco by-products and their components can be exploited by applying technologies such as supercritical fluids, drying, and biofilms, while, for waste management, the processes of composting, solar photo-Fenton, and ozonation can be applied. Moreover, it is important to highlight that the valorization of Pisco by-products opens opportunities for translation into the market, particularly in developing cosmetics, nutritional supplements, and bio-packaging materials, contributing to sustainability and innovation in new industries. However, a more holistic view is still needed in Pisco research. These findings suggest that future research should prioritize the integration of consumer-based sensory evaluations and sustainable production innovations to optimize Pisco’s quality, enhance market acceptance, and promote environmentally responsible industry practices.
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Open AccessArticle
Astringency Modification of Mandilaria Wines: Vineyard and Winery Strategies
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Christina Karadimou, Theodoros Gkrimpizis, Eleni Louki, Lamprini Roussi, Nikolaos Theodorou, Stefanos Koundouras and Stamatina Kallithraka
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030076 - 26 May 2025
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This paper aims to explore the impact of targeted viticultural and enological interventions on reducing the astringency of wines made solely with Mandilaria, a red Vitis Vinifera L. grape variety. Mandilaria is characterized by its high berry density, high tannin content, intense color
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This paper aims to explore the impact of targeted viticultural and enological interventions on reducing the astringency of wines made solely with Mandilaria, a red Vitis Vinifera L. grape variety. Mandilaria is characterized by its high berry density, high tannin content, intense color and full body profile, all of which contribute to the distinctive enological characteristics of the wines while also pretending challenges for producers during vinification. This research aims to improve phenolic ripeness and adapt the wine produced to the requirements of the present consumers demands. In the vineyards of Paros Island, different intensities of leaf removal and modifications to pruning load were applied. Three distinct post-harvest grape dehydration techniques and two varying levels of seed removal during alcoholic fermentation were evaluated for their effectiveness in reducing astringency. Sensory analysis with a trained panel was also performed. The results demonstrate that post-harvest dehydration techniques, particularly air and sun dehydration, significantly influence the quality indicators of Mandilaria wines, enhancing the phenolic content, tannin levels and antioxidant activity, while also improving the phenolic ripeness and reducing the harsh tannic profile. Furthermore, seed removal effectively diminished astringency without affecting the wine’s structure. These findings suggest that the integration of these viticultural and enological techniques can significantly enhance the sensory attributes of Mandilaria wines, making them more appealing to modern consumers.
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Open AccessArticle
Kefir Probiotic-Enriched Non-Alcoholic Beers: Microbial, Genetic, and Sensory-Chemical Assessment
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Alessandra Souza Marques do Nascimento, Raquel Nunes Almeida da Silva, Pedro Paulo Lordelo Guimarães Tavares, Adriana Silva Borges, Marina Passos Soares Cardoso, Ana Katerine de Carvalho Lima Lobato, Rogéria Comastri de Castro Almeida and Karina Teixeira Magalhães-Guedes
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030075 - 21 May 2025
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Probiotic microorganisms from sugary kefir were incorporated into Brazilian non-alcoholic beers to enhance their functional and nutritional properties through aerobic static fermentation over 24 h. Non-alcoholic beers inoculated with sugary kefir showed appropriate acidity (pH reduction from ~3.74 to ~3.52), color, and microbial
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Probiotic microorganisms from sugary kefir were incorporated into Brazilian non-alcoholic beers to enhance their functional and nutritional properties through aerobic static fermentation over 24 h. Non-alcoholic beers inoculated with sugary kefir showed appropriate acidity (pH reduction from ~3.74 to ~3.52), color, and microbial balance, along with excellent sensory acceptance (scores of 6.9–8.4 on a 9-point hedonic scale). The kefir microbiota included Lacticaseibacillus paracasei, Lacticaseibacillus casei, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei subsp. tolerans, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. lactis, Lentilactobacillus parabuchneri, Lentilactobacillus kefiri, Lactococcus lactis, Leuconostoc citreum, Acetobacter lovaniensis, and yeasts such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Kluyveromyces lactis, Lachancea meyersii, and Kazachstania aerobia. Genetic analysis confirmed the absence of undesirable or pathogenic microorganisms. Fermentation led to reductions in sucrose (~0.35 to ~0.22 g/L) and °Brix (~5.55 to ~3.80), with increases in lactic acid (~0.55 to ~1.25 g/L) and acetic acid (~0.08 to ~0.14 g/L), confirming active microbial metabolism. Ethanol levels remained within legal limits for non-alcoholic beverages. The process preserved sensory attributes while enriching the beverage with well-documented kefir microorganisms. These findings highlight sugary kefir as a promising biotechnological tool to enhance the functional profile of non-alcoholic beers without compromising their sensory quality.
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Open AccessArticle
Caffeine and Polyphenolic Compound Recovery Optimization from Spent Coffee Grounds Utilizing Pressurized Liquid Extraction
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Athanasios Christoforidis, Martha Mantiniotou, Vassilis Athanasiadis and Stavros I. Lalas
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030074 - 20 May 2025
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Coffee belongs among the most widespread beverages worldwide, and its increasing consumption leads to the generation of a large amount of by-products, mainly spent coffee grounds (SCGs). SCGs can be further recycled as they contain bioactive compounds. This research aims to search for
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Coffee belongs among the most widespread beverages worldwide, and its increasing consumption leads to the generation of a large amount of by-products, mainly spent coffee grounds (SCGs). SCGs can be further recycled as they contain bioactive compounds. This research aims to search for the extraction conditions that lead to the highest recovery of these compounds through a green extraction technique, pressurized liquid extraction (PLE). The parameters studied were solvent composition, temperature, and extraction time, while the pressure was kept constant at 1700 psi. The optimum conditions were 48% v/v ethanol solution at 160 °C for 25 min. Under these conditions, the maximum recoveries were total polyphenol content of 15.99 mg gallic acid equivalents/g dry weight (dw), a total caffeine content of 1.15 mg/g dw, and an antioxidant capacity determined through the ferric-reducing antioxidant power of 101.87 μmol ascorbic acid equivalents/g dw. Additionally, individual polyphenols in SCGs were studied by high-performance liquid chromatography, revealing that the extracts were rich in chlorogenic acid, (−)-epicatechin, and rutin. The results of this work can set the basis for the further utilization of SCGs through PLE by the beverage, food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
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Open AccessArticle
Winery Names of Northern Greece and Their Contribution to Wine Communication Strategies
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Theodosios Tsiakis and Eleni Anagnostou
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030073 - 15 May 2025
Abstract
When it comes to wine communication, winery names can serve as multidimensional communication mechanisms. Their various aspects of communication concern the historical context, tourism geography, socio-economic tourism development, wine knowledge, and even gastronomy. On this basis, a whole communication strategy could be developed,
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When it comes to wine communication, winery names can serve as multidimensional communication mechanisms. Their various aspects of communication concern the historical context, tourism geography, socio-economic tourism development, wine knowledge, and even gastronomy. On this basis, a whole communication strategy could be developed, which could lead to progressive interaction and networking with consumers. Quality needs to be fully and properly communicated through multiple channels. This paper aims to reveal the importance of the way in which wine producers in Northern Greece construct their brand identity through strategic naming choices—such as Estate, Ktima, Château, or the producer’s family name—as opposed to more neutral or descriptive labels. The findings suggest that winery names contribute significantly to consumer perception, place branding, and the development of wine tourism. The choice of a winery name influences regional identity, strengthens the connection with local traditions, and enhances the commercial success and tourism appeal of the region.
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(This article belongs to the Section Wine, Spirits and Oenological Products)
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Open AccessArticle
Understanding Consumer Acceptability and Sensory Drivers of Liking in Montepulciano Wines from Brazil and Beyond
by
Tamara Cristina Melz, Rochele Cassanta Rossi, Valmor Ziegler and Amanda Dupas de Matos
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030072 - 14 May 2025
Abstract
Brazil is an important wine producer in Latin America, with the Santa Catarina (SC) region gaining prominence for producing high-quality wines. Among new red varieties cultivated in SC, Montepulciano has recently gained attention. Despite the growing interest in Montepulciano wines in Brazil, no
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Brazil is an important wine producer in Latin America, with the Santa Catarina (SC) region gaining prominence for producing high-quality wines. Among new red varieties cultivated in SC, Montepulciano has recently gained attention. Despite the growing interest in Montepulciano wines in Brazil, no studies have investigated Brazilian consumer perceptions of this varietal. This gap underscores the need for research to better understand acceptance for this emerging varietal in Brazil. This study aimed (i) to advance consumer insights of Montepulciano wines by evaluating the acceptability of Montepulciano wines from Brazil and those from other countries, and (ii) to identify the key attributes influencing acceptance. Participants (n = 103) evaluated six national and international wines for overall liking and sensory characteristics using the check-all-that-apply technique. The drivers of liking for aroma were floral and red/dark berries, whereas leather and alcohol penalized liking. In-mouth, sweetness, red/dark berries, and soft tannins drove liking, whereas astringent, sour, and bitter impacted liking negatively. Among the Brazilian wines, differences were perceived to be more pronounced for aroma than flavor and mouthfeel. The findings highlight the market potential of Brazilian Montepulciano wines, with liking comparable to some Italian and Chilean counterparts. Understanding consumer sensory responses to these wines is crucial to support production strategies that align with market demands.
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(This article belongs to the Section Sensory Analysis of Beverages)
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Open AccessArticle
Microbial Dynamics and Phage Composition Reveal Key Transitions Driving Product Stability in Natural Vinegar Fermentation
by
Gilberto Vinícius de Melo Pereira, Bruna Leal Maske, Alexander da Silva Vale, Júlio César de Carvalho, Maria Giovana Binder Pagnoncelli and Carlos Ricardo Soccol
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030071 - 14 May 2025
Abstract
This study employed shotgun metagenomics to investigate microbial dynamics, phage-bacteria interactions, and functional genes throughout a three-month apple vinegar fermentation process. A total of 5621 microbial species were identified, revealing three distinct phases: (i) Enterobacteria and non-Saccharomyces species dominated the initial substrate;
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This study employed shotgun metagenomics to investigate microbial dynamics, phage-bacteria interactions, and functional genes throughout a three-month apple vinegar fermentation process. A total of 5621 microbial species were identified, revealing three distinct phases: (i) Enterobacteria and non-Saccharomyces species dominated the initial substrate; (ii) S. cerevisiae and Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides prevailed in the intermediate phase; and (iii) acetic acid bacteria (Acetobacter ghanesis and Gluconobacter spp.), alongside non-Saccharomyces species (Pichia kudriavzevii and Malassezia restricta), dominated the final stages. Bacteriophage analysis revealed the presence of phages targeting spoilage bacteria, such as Pseudomonas and Erwinia, suggesting a role in regulating microbial stability and enhancing fermentation control. Functional metagenomic analysis highlighted key pathways associated with microbial growth and metabolite production, including carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, energy production, and glycan biosynthesis. Enzymes involved in stress adaptation and secondary metabolism, including oxidative phosphorylation and phenolic compound synthesis, demonstrated microbial resilience and their potential role in shaping the product’s sensory and functional properties. Moreover, Enterobacteriaceae species were associated with pectin degradation during the early stages, aiding substrate breakdown. These findings are crucial for microbial and phage management in fermentation technology, offering valuable insights for innovation in the vinegar industry.
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(This article belongs to the Section Beverage Technology Fermentation and Microbiology)
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Selection and Use of Wild Lachancea thermotolerans Strains from Rioja AOC with Bioacidificant Capacity as Strategy to Mitigate Climate Change Effects in Wine Industry
by
Daniel Fernández-Vázquez, Mercè Sunyer-Figueres, Jennifer Vázquez, Miquel Puxeu, Enric Nart, Sergi de Lamo and Imma Andorrà
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030070 - 12 May 2025
Abstract
Lachancea thermotolerans help increase the acidity of wines by producing L-lactic acid, which can serve as a strategy to mitigate the decrease in total acidity in wines promoted by climate change. The aim of the present paper is to test the capability of
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Lachancea thermotolerans help increase the acidity of wines by producing L-lactic acid, which can serve as a strategy to mitigate the decrease in total acidity in wines promoted by climate change. The aim of the present paper is to test the capability of wine bioacidification of wild strains isolated from Rioja AOC. For this purpose, L. thermotolerans strains isolated from musts were used in mixed fermentation (co-inoculation and sequential inoculation) with Saccharomyces cerevisiae to determine the fermentation performance and L-lactic acid production, in both laboratory scale and pilot scale. Fermentation kinetics was evaluated, in addition to the final wine chemical composition and organoleptical properties. The results indicated that the isolated strains produced L-lactic acid; these effects were dependent on the strain and the inoculation strategy, being higher the effect in sequential inoculation (9.20 g/L) than in co-inoculation. This L-lactic acid production capacity was maintained at a pilot scale (4.65 g/L), in which the acidity increase was perceptible in the sensorial analysis, and an ethanol concentration decrease was also reported. The wine acidification depends on the appropriate selection of the strains, the inoculation procedure, the yeast adaptation to media, and competence with other yeast species present in the fermentation broth. The wild L. thermotolerans Lt97 strain could be used as a bioacidification tool for wines affected by climate change.
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Gain of Body Fat and Intake of Energy in Rats with Low Dose of Caloric and Non-Caloric Sweeteners Used in Reformulation Beverage in Mexico
by
Guadalupe López-Rodríguez, Marcos Galván, Oscar Galván-Valencia and Jocelyn Gómez-Castillo
Beverages 2025, 11(3), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages11030069 - 12 May 2025
Abstract
In Mexico and worldwide, the increased prevalence of both weight gain and obesity is associated with the consumption of sugary drinks. Mexico implemented a tax of one peso per liter on sugary drinks in 2014, and in response, the industry reformulated these beverages;
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In Mexico and worldwide, the increased prevalence of both weight gain and obesity is associated with the consumption of sugary drinks. Mexico implemented a tax of one peso per liter on sugary drinks in 2014, and in response, the industry reformulated these beverages; however, the health effects are relatively unknown. Male and female Wistar rats consumed caloric sweeteners (CS: dextrose, saccharose, and HFCS at 7%) and non-caloric sweeteners (NCS: sucralose and stevia at 0.3%) for 16 weeks to determine the impact on metabolic and adiposity indicators. The weight, food intake (AIN93M diet), and beverage intake of the rats were recorded weekly. At the end of the treatment, the gonadal (GAT), mesenteric (MAT), and retroperitoneal (RAT) adipose tissue were dissected, and serum metabolic indicators were quantified. No differences were observed in weight gain, but there were higher beverage and energy intake, mainly in female rats. All groups with CS and NCS increased 2.0–2.4 or 1.3–1.9 times their intake of beverages, respectively, compared to the control groups (p < 0.01). With dextrose intake, male rats showed a significantly greater amount (mg/g body weight) of GAT (3.7 ± 0.6 vs. 2.3 ± 0.3), MAT (2.8 ± 0.8 vs. 1.7 ± 0.3), and RAT (4.6 ± 0.6 vs. 2.7 ± 0.2) in the stevia group, p < 0.05. Additionally, male rats in both CS and NCS groups presented elevated triglyceride concentrations (mg/dL), and the dextrose (299.7 ± 62.3) and sucralose (352.4 ± 36.2) groups registered the highest means, compared to the control group (122.3 ± 51.2, p < 0.05). The consumption of CS and NCS of beverages has effects on the volume ingested, as well as metabolic and adiposity indicators; therefore, they should not be considered innocuous.
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(This article belongs to the Section Sensory Analysis of Beverages)
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