Some recent advances in sampling and sample-preparation technologies for fragrance analysis are addressed in this review. Procedures, such as analytical distillation (vapor distillation and simultaneous distillation-extraction), headspace-manipulation methods (static and dynamic headspace analysis and headspace solid-phase microextraction) and direct extraction. methods (such as liquid-liquid, solid-phase and supercritical fluid), will be-discussed and critically evaluated. Contemporary applications of these techniques to the study of natural and synthetic aromas Will be presented. (C) 2003 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.223160169