Science Magazine Podcast How birds reacted to a solar eclipse, and keeping wildfire smoke out of wine
Oct 9, 2025
Michael Greshko, an associate online news editor, discusses how wildfires cause 'smoke taint' in wine and shares fascinating insights into ancient DNA and neanderthal hunting. Meanwhile, Kimberly Rosvall, a biology professor, and Liz Aguilar, a Ph.D. student, reveal their citizen-science project studying bird behavior during the 2024 solar eclipse. They highlight significant species responses and the excitement of public involvement, showcasing how light changes can inform us about bird physiology. A captivating blend of science and community engagement!
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Smoke Compounds Penetrate Grapes
- Smoke from wildfires carries phenolic compounds that penetrate grape skins and cause 'smoke taint' in wine.
- Some phenols like guaiacol drive the acrid ashtray flavor and persist through fermentation.
Microbe Targets The Key Offender
- Researchers found Gordonia alkanivorans on grape leaves that can degrade guaiacol specifically.
- Targeting only harmful phenols could remove smoke taint without destroying desirable wine flavors.
Neanderthal Horse Massacre Revealed
- At the Schöningen site in northern Germany, Neanderthals appear to have corralled and killed horses about 300,000 years ago.
- The site preserves butchered horse bones and DNA, offering rare open-air ancient DNA evidence.