Identification, quantitation and organoleptic contributions of furan compounds in brandy

Furan compounds actively contribute to the characteristics of brandy. Herein, we have attempted to identify and quantify the furan compounds present in brandy using three different extraction methods combined with comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography and time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Threshold determination and omission experiments were carried out to verify their organoleptic contribution. Liquid-liquid extraction using dichloromethane was found to be the optimal extraction method. A total of 21 furan compounds were identified, in which 5 were detected in brandy for the first time. Our quantitative results showed a positive correlation between the furan compound content and the aging time. Among them, ethyl 5-oxotetrahydro-2-furancarboxylate exhibited a very high odor activity value (1.64 < OAV < 179.53) and smoky aroma. Omission tests showed that the three furan compounds with an OAV > 1 made a significant difference to brandy. These findings bring a new perspective to the sensory and chemical characteristics of brandy.