United Arab Emirates

Agarwood, or oud, is the most expensive note in a perfumer’s palette. It has been valued for thousands of years and is considered one of the most luxurious ingredients in the world of perfumery. Oud is derived from the dark resin of the Agar tree, which grows in very rare conditions. Although its popularity skyrocketed in the past decade, oud has been known and used by various ancient civilizations in esoteric ceremonies and meditation practices for hundreds of years. Perfect for cold weather, oud has a distinctively woody, slightly animalic, and rich scent. Oud’s warmth adds whole new brevity and depth when combined with floral or spicy notes.

Artemisia refers to a large genus of herbaceous, aromatic plants belonging to the daisy family Asteraceae. Popular notes include wormwood, tarragon, mugwort (“moxa”) and sagebrush. Commonly used in fougère accords, Artemisia emphasizes zesty facets while exemplifying the sweet, fruity inflections of a fragrance. Artemisia contrasts perfectly alongside notes of patchouli.

A rich, spicy and floral note, reminiscent of carnation and most commonly used in men’s fragrances to give a warm and sweetly aromatic quality to complex accords. Clove is particularly popular for its deep, woody tones that blend beautifully in fragrances of bergamot, citrus, lavender, earthy geranium, musk, rose or ylang-ylang.

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.