I thought the appended item from my physics listserv would be of interest
to
AFWers. An article about the device also appears in today's web version
of
Time Magazine.
--
Don Eagle
To reply personally, drop the Latin "not more"
ELECTRONIC WINE TASTING. Scientists in Spain have developed an
"electronic tongue" designed to distinguish a good Pinot Noir from a
cheap Chablis. The "e-tongue" is designed for wine quality control
in the field and is based on tiny synthetic membranes on a silicone
chip. The device, developed at the Barcelona Institute of
Microelectronics, can distinguish between four grape varieties and
its developers are working to extend its ability. Cecilia
Jimenez-Jorquera said the device is similar to the human tongue in
that it is sensitive to five different tastes: sweet, salty, bitter,
acidic and umami (savory). The e-tongue can determine the age and
variety of wine, and eventually might be able to "detect frauds
committed regarding the vintage year of the wine, or the grape
varieties used."
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