Episode 5: Uncovering the Secrets of Whiskey with Kevin MacNamara
Shownotes:Â
 >99% of any distilled spirit is comprised of ethanol and water and therefore is of no interest from an analytical organoleptic point of view. Direct injection will detect a small number of abundant fermentation fusel alcohols (high ppm levels), which may not be main contributors to perceived aroma. Therefore:  An Enrichment Method is Required!!Â
In this episode, we discuss whiskey with Irish Distillers’ Head of Technical Development, Kevin MacNamara. In mid-1980’s Irish Distillers had a collaboration with University of Karlsruhe and were able to reproduce and use their proprietary Freon extraction technique. This was a highly efficient overnight continuous extraction process.  Some years later it was impossible to get supplies of Freon 11, therefore another approach is required. This is where GERSTEL comes in. Irish Distillers collaboration with GERSTEL began and it seemed possible that a PTV (CIS) injector might be able to vent unwanted matrix while retaining and enriching compounds of interest in the injection port liner for subsequent transfer to the column. Listen as we discuss his research, equipment, methods, and much more in this weeks episode.
Guest:
Kevin MacNamara
Head of Technical Development, Irish Distillers
Additional links:
Olfactory Detection Post (ODP)Â
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