Process for preparing mixtures containing 8,9-epithio-1-p-menthene

Described is a process for preparing a mixture of t-mercapto terpenes defined according to the structure: and alpha -terpineol defined according to the structure: including the step of reacting the compound defined according to the structure: with an alkali metal thiocyanate defined according to the structure: wherein M represents alkali metal such as sodium, potassium or lithium in the presence of a phase transfer catalyst. The resulting product is then treated with lithium aluminum hydride followed by aqueous mineral acid to form a mixture of alpha -terpineol and the compound defined according to the structure: which mixture is useful for its organoleptic properties.