higheralcohol

Higheralcohol, more commonly written as higher alcohols or fusel oils, designates a class of alcohols containing three or more carbon atoms that are produced during fermentation. The most prominent members include propanol, isobutanol (2-methyl-1-propanol), isoamyl alcohol (3-methyl-1-butanol), and related longer-chain alcohols. These compounds occur in fermented beverages produced by yeast and some bacteria as byproducts of metabolism.

They arise primarily through the Ehrlich pathway, in which amino acids are transaminated and decarboxylated to their corresponding higher alcohols, as well as through general carbohydrate metabolism in yeast. Higher alcohols contribute to the aroma and mouthfeel of beverages and can interact with acids to form esters, which in turn shape fruity and complex notes in beer and wine.

Sensory impact is concentration dependent. At low to moderate levels, higher alcohols can add warmth and fullness; at higher concentrations they may impart solvent-like or harsh flavors that can dominate the profile. Esters formed from these alcohols, such as isoamyl acetate, often produce complementary fruity notes.

Factors influencing formation include yeast strain, fermentation temperature, nutrient status, oxygenation, and fermentation duration. By selecting specific strains and controlling fermentation conditions, producers adjust the level of higher alcohols to achieve the desired flavor balance. In distillation, higher alcohols are part of the fusel fraction and can affect the character of the final spirit if not separated during processing.