This study aimed to improve the understanding of 2-aminoacetophenone (2-AAP) formation in white wines, a compound responsible for atypical ageing (ATA) associated with a rapid loss of white wine fruity aroma and to the development of unpleasant odors. Two surveys performed in 139 white wines from Central Europe investigated the varietal effect on wine tendency to form 2-AAP during ageing. The role of some antioxidants and important transition metal ions present in wine (Fe, Cu and Mn) in the formation of 2-AAP was also investigated. The surveys highlighted that Muscat and Riesling wines showed significantly higher concentrations of 2-AAP than Chardonnay and some other regional varieties found in Central Europe such as Grüner Veltliner, Welschriesling and Zelen. The origin of such varietal effects could not be related to the level of any 2-AAP precursor. On the other hand, some of the important wine matrix effects were highlighted. A certain variability in capacity of different antioxidants to limit 2-AAP formation was observed. Supplementations of commercial tannins in wines tended to be more efficient than glutathione in preserving wines from the formation of 2-AAP. Transition metal ions significantly impacted 2-AAP synthesis through complex interactions. Generally, Fe and Mn tended to promote formation of 2-AAP, while the presence of Cu limited it. The higher concentration of transition metal ions significantly improved the efficiency of antioxidants to reduce 2-AAP formation. Further studies investigating the origin of varietal effects and the complex matrix effects involving metal ions and antioxidants in 2-AAP production are warranted.