The sensory properties of the diastereomeric enantiomer pairs and of the pure enantiomers of the compound 2-methyl-4-phenyl-1,3-dioxolane are described. The cis compounds (2R,4S)-2-methyl-4-phenyl-1,3-dioxolane and (2S,4R)-2-methyl-4-phenyl-1,3-dioxolane are the most sensorially valuable. These enantiomers and mixtures thereof are particularly suitable for use as a sensorially active substance, for example as a fragrance.