Uncovering the flavor characteristics of soy sauce aroma baijiu from two important regions via multiple analytical approaches

In-depth elaboration clarifies the characteristics of Anhui-style soy sauce aroma baijiu for the first time. • Direct comparison reveals flavor differences between Anhui and Guizhou soy sauce aroma baijiu for the first time. • Multiple detection methods combined with sensory evaluation analyze the similarities and differences. • The results provide a reference method for production region authenticity identification. In this study, a comprehensive profiling of flavor compounds in soy sauce aroma baijiu produced in Guizhou (GZJX) and Anhui (AHJX) province was achieved by integrating multiple analytical techniques with sensory science methodologies. A total of 2546 and 2376 volatile components were identified in GZJX and AHJX, respectively, with 1399 components common to both. Quantitative analysis revealed that ethyl lactate, ethyl acetate, acetic acid, lactic acid and 1-propanol constituted the core flavor backbone of two regions. ROAV analysis confirmed AHJX and GZJX shared a similar spectrum of odor-active compounds, which were mainly driven by ethyl octanoate and ethyl isovalerate, respectively. In terms of sensory evaluation, GZJX exhibited higher intensities of sauce aroma, layeredness and richness, while AHJX presented a more elegant profile characterized by cocoa, honey, floral and fruity aromas. Differential analysis identified 6 and 14 significantly enriched components in AHJX and GZJX, respectively. Overall, GZJX and AHJX share the fundamental traditional sauce aroma attributes yet display unique sensory and chemical characteristics respective to their geographical origin. This study for the first time clarified the characteristic flavor profile of Anhui-style SSAB and systematically compared the flavor distinction between Anhui core producing area and Guizhou (represented by Maotai Town), providing a reference for the geographical differentiation. Download: Download high-res image (348KB) Download: Download full-size image