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Terpenes

Large group of chemical compounds (lat. terebinthina = turpentine) that are the main component of many fragrances and flavourings in plants, many fungi and some insects. They are pure hydrocarbons (mainly so-called monoterpenes), while the oxygenated derivatives are known as terpenoids. Terpenes are found in the form of aldehydes, ketones and alcohols in plant oils, balsams and resins.

Occurrence and function

Terpenes are found in numerous plant species, including grapes, and are an essential component of many essential oils. Grapes contain them in both free and bound form; the latter are released during winemaking through enzymatic processes. In the plant, they serve as fragrances, repellents or attractants for insects and as a defence against microorganisms. Some terpenes are also phytoalexins.

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