Woody notes encompass an entire olfactory family of deep, warm scents. They are resinous and decadently aromatic, and often derive from dried leaves or roots. Popular woody notes include the creamy, sensual scent of sandalwood, the invigorating fragrance of pine or the smoky aroma of vetiver. Woody notes are popular all year round, but are particularly suited to the colder months for their earthy, rich facets.

Cedar or cedarwood is one of the oldest ingredients used in the perfumery, with its balsamic, woody aroma providing a key facet in many popular scents. Native to the Mediterranean and the Himalayas, cedarwood has been revered for its mystical and magical properties by many cultures throughout history. The Cherokee tribe believed that the human spirit was hidden in the core of cedarwood, while Tibetans used cedarwood oil in their spiritual ceremonies, and ancient Romans used the tree trunks for ship construction. In perfumery, cedarwood is primarily used as a base note, anchoring the top and middle notes of a composition. Cedarwood combines extremely well with floral and citrus notes, lending warmth, while the fragrances in which cedar is blended with musk and amber have a green and clean aroma with a retro/vintage vibe.

Pepper’s hot, spicy attack can focus the drama in a perfume instantly. It’s dry, tangy, nose-crinkling personality sharpens other notes in a fragrance and boosts their olfactory signal. Black pepper is best with leather, suede, and tobacco. Black pepper also heightens lighter citrus notes like lemon, lime, orange, green apple, and citron. Pink pepper is best in aromatic or floral blends, where it’s warm, fruity facets can bring an airy white floral perfume into focus, or underline masculine notes such as lavender, basil, musk, etc. Pepper’s insistent heat can be worn either day or night, and it’s fruity/spicy shadow makes it ideal for any season.