General term for a group of divalent alcohols with two hydroxyl groups (OH) - the so-called glycols. The most important compound is ethylene glycol (also known simply as "glycol"). These colourless, sweet-tasting, viscous liquids are mainly used as solvents and in antifreeze and coolants and are harmful to health in higher doses. They are not authorised for use in the luxury food sector. A related but more toxic compound is diethylene glycol, which became known through the wine scandal of 1985.
Glycol should not be confused with alcohol, which also tastes sweet but is trivalent to glycol glycerolwhich is naturally produced in wine during fermentation and makes a positive contribution to viscosity (viscosity). Glycerine is therefore not glycol and is not harmful to health.
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Egon Mark
Diplom-Sommelier, Weinakademiker und Weinberater, Volders (Österreich)