The scent of green mandarin differs from that of the mandarin because the green mandarin is extracted from the peel of the unripe fruit. Unlike the sweet fruity aroma of ripe mandarin, the green mandarin has a bold bitter, yet uplifting citrus smell. Due to its subtly sweet, neroli undertones, green mandarin combines best with jasmine, florals, citrus, musks, and/or amber notes. The fragrances that feature this note provide a kick of freshness to its wearer in warmer climates, and a boost to the spirit when the temperatures drop.

Geranium’s chilly, green demeanor lends itself perfectly to perfume. Geranium has a soft, almost mentholated feel, like a sudden, refreshing gust of clean forest air. Its natural coolness makes it a wonderful contrast in bright, zesty citrus perfumes, as well as in aromatic men’s fragrances containing buttoned-up lavender notes or corianders’ fiery heat. Geranium can help take the humid edge off warmer weather, but can also be wonderful for fall’s windy climate and winter’s bright, snowy nights.

Patchouli is a deeply spiced, thickly herbal and immediately recognizable note - it’s “dirty hippie” reputation doesn’t do it justice. Patchouli’s scent lies somewhere between cumin’s sharp and acrid tang and nutmeg’s smooth, sweet warmth, and it can carry a fragrance or blend easily with other, spicier notes. It is ideal in heated, spicy perfumes that feature leather, smoke, resins, and lighter aromatic notes like lavender and geranium. Patchouli’s exotic strength can be an acquired taste in perfume, but it’s many moods and blends make it an endlessly fascinating note to explore in the spicy end of the scent spectrum.