Oregon State discovers new contributor to smoke taint in grapes and wine

CORVALLIS, Ore. – Oregon State University researchers have discovered a new source that contributes to smoke taint in grapes and wine.

For years, phenol compounds have been used as an indicator of smoke taint, but researchers noticed it was not always accurate.

The study has discovered a new sulfur compound that, when in combination with phenols, causes smoke taint.

The study authors hope providing this critical information to grape growers and winery owners can save future crops from being ruined or severely impacted by wildfire smoke.

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Ethan McReynolds is a reporter and weekend anchor for NBC5 News. He grew up in Bothell, Washington and graduated from Gonzaga University with a degree in Broadcasting and minors in Journalism and Sport Management. At Gonzaga, he started his own sports podcast. Ethan loves rooting for his hometown Seattle sports teams, especially the Mariners. He loves playing baseball, basketball, and soccer. He is also an avid Taylor Swift fan.
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