Electronic tongue created to classify cava wines

(Diego Cervo/shutterstock.com)

In the ever-growing world of automation, a group of Spanish scientists has created an electronic tongue that can identify different types of cava wines - and perhaps replicate the work of a sommelier.

So far, the device can identify three types of cavas based on their sugar content through a powerful sensor system and mathematical algorithm: Brut, Brut Nature and Medium Dry.

It could also be useful in detecting defects during the wine-making process.

The project is the result of years of research out of the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, where scientists developed devices like an artificial neural network which mimics the human taste system, and powerful biosensors.

Automation has become increasingly pervasive in the food and restaurant industry, with robots replacing servers and iPads substituting wine lists and menus.

An interactive digital tablet E la Carte out of the US has also been creating buzz in the restaurant industry for its ability to showcase menu items, order, and settle the bill - and perhaps render wait staff obsolete.