MATTHEW J. TRASS (1), Kory Kelly (1)
(1) Phenomenex, Torrance, CA
Distilled spirits are analyzed for compounds called congeners, which
are formed during fermentation. These compounds add to the flavor of the
final product but can be harmful if consumed in excess. Therefore,
monitoring these congeners is very important as it can identify problems
with production, refute fraudulent claims, and be an invaluable part of
the quality control process. GC using a polyethylene glycol (wax type)
phase acquires the best resolution and peak shape for distilled spirit
congeners. However, historically, injecting aqueous samples such as
distilled spirits on a polyethylene glycol stationary phase cannot be
done since water has a very negative affect on stability. This study
demonstrates the distilled-spirits congener’s GC analysis using a 100%
aqueous stable ZB-Waxplus column. By using this column, highly
reproducible results were obtained for the analysis of a 60% aqueous
Scottish single-malt whiskey.
Matthew Trass received a B.S. degree in chemistry from the University
of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand. He began employment with Phenomenex
in 2006 as an application chemist. With Phenomenex he has developed GC,
SPE, and LC methods, as well as conducted training seminars.
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