Characterisation of two alcohol acyltransferases from kiwifruit (Actinidia spp.) reveals distinct substrate preferences

► Gene transcription of ripening specific Actinidia ATs is controlled by ethylene. ► Two likely orthologous ATs exhibit benzoyl-CoA:alcohol O-acyltransferase activity. ► One phylogenetically distinct AT acts as acetyl-CoA:alcohol O-acyltransferase. ► AAT-substrate specificity and availability modulate kiwifruit ester profiles.