Wine discrimination through an electronic nose based on SWCNTs functionalized with Zn phthalocyanine

Ensuring wine quality and authenticity is of growing importance for both producers and consumers, particularly considering the increasing economic relevance of the global wine industry and the need to safeguard consumer trust. Reliable, rapid, and cost-effective tools are required to monitor the progression of wine aging, detect early signs of spoilage, and identify varietal origin, since these parameters are directly linked to both sensory attributes and market value. Here, we report the development of an electronic nose (e-nose) based on single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) sensors functionalized with zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc), designed to improve sensitivity and selectivity toward wine-related volatile compounds. The e-nose, comprising seven sensors, was characterized using representative analytes such as ethanol, water vapor, ammonia, acetic acid, and acetone, which are key indicators of fermentation, spoilage, and storage conditions. The e-nose was subsequently employed to monitor wine aging and to discriminate among several commercial white wines, including Prosecco, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Lugana, and Prime Rosè. Distinct and reproducible response patterns enabled accurate discrimination of both wine type and aging stage. These results demonstrate the capability of ZnPc-functionalized SWCNT e-nose to provide objective and scalable aroma-based quality evaluation, highlighting its potential for broader applications in the characterization of fermented beverages and complex food matrices. • ZnPc functionalization boosts SWCNT sensor sensitivity and selectivity • E-nose discriminates key wine-related VOCs with clear PCA separation • Device tracks wine aging and spoilage through volatile-profile changes • Six commercial white wines classified with >98% LDA prediction accuracy • CNT–ZnPc array offers rapid, low-cost tool for wine quality authentication