IMHO esters are fruity and are the result of yeast fermentation. Phenols are
medicinal, bubblegum, plastic or chemical and are the result of fermentation
by other than yeast (Brettonomyces, pediococcus etc.etc.)
Steve
"Dick Adams" wrote in message
...
I was asked to explain how to distinguish
between a phenolic and an ester. I thought
my answer was so weak that I would rather
not repeat it.

I would appreciate reading the answers of
others.

Dick