The terpene-producing ability due to mutation in the ERG 20 gene coding for the farnesyl diphosphate synthetase in Saccharomyces cerevisiae was introduced into a wine yeast by crossing its meiotic progeny with an erg20 laboratory strain. After three backcross generations, strains displaying improved technological properties and more typical terpenic profile were obtained. These strains, which contribute a strong muscatel-type aroma to processed grape juice, are henceforth available for industrial applications.