Elemental characterisation of Cabernet Sauvignon wines using Particle-Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE)

The elemental composition of 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon wines from four different regions of Rio Grande do Sul state (Brazil) was determined using Particle-Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) technique. In total, wines from 13 different vineyards were studied. Particular attention was given to wines stemming from Vale dos Vinhedos which is one of the most important wine producing regions in Brazil. Typical PIXE spectra consisted of elements with atomic number between 11 and 38 such as P, S, K, Ti, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn and Rb. Physicochemical variables such as volatile acidity, alcohol, pH and dry extract were also determined for some wines. Variations in the elemental concentrations among wines from Vale dos Vinhedos and from different regions were observed. In general our results are in good agreement with previous measurements of Brazilian wines. With respect to European wines, our results are characterised by relatively low concentrations of Cu and Zn and high concentration of Rb.