Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI) was u
sed as a tool for developing a rapid and efficient screening technique for
the presence and identification of anthocyanins in grape skins. The anthocy
anins of ten different grape varieties were extracted with a simple extract
ion procedure. Each of the five red grape varieties exhibited a distinct ma
ss spectrum. The most abundant anthocyanins detected were the monoglucoside
s and the coumaroyl-monoglucosides of cyanidin, peonidin, delphinidin, petu
nidin, and malvidin.