Definitively spicy, saffron adds an energizing burst to both feminine and masculine fragrances. It’s an endlessly luxurious note of warm, leathery facets. Particularly evocative of smooth suede, saffron evokes an intimate feeling: soft, and yet slightly bitter. As the most expensive spice in the world, saffron is a well-known perfumery ingredient that is also called “red gold”. In ancient times, it was used as a single-ingredient fragrance reserved only for the highest members of society. Although modern perfumers are not reluctant to spotlight its earthy, hay-like, sweet aroma on its own, they are more interested in exploring its partnership with leather, spice, and amber notes. The fragrances that feature saffron are rich, opulent, and enticing, making them perfect special occasion or date night picks.

Benzoin’s sensual, enveloping, vanilla-like sweetness is a popular feature in perfumery, especially in gourmand compositions. It’s a resin secreted by the Styrax plant, a type of shrub native to Southeastern Asia and South America. The Ancient Egyptians and Greeks used it for its disinfectant properties, and oftentimes in religious ceremonies. It is a base note that’s used to bind other notes together, thus creating a fragrance that oozes warmth and sultriness. Benzoin offers distinctly rich scents of woody, sweet vanilla. Its layered composition unfolds in warm, honeyed facets not dissimilar to caramel, almond or freshly roasted coffee. Subtle floral notes awaken slight nuances of carnations in soft, wispy or even powdery tones. Benzoin is renowned for its qualities as a perfume fixative, providing a fullness and warmth to compositions with its round, buttery-smooth tones. Benzoin can most commonly be found in ambery or gourmand accords.