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.

This spicy top note adds a layered vibrancy to complex accords. As a first impression, cardamom feels fresh and airy, but soon shifts to reveal a warmth that is both sweet and woody. Often likened to the aromatic effects of citrus notes, cardamom can be revitalizing with its zestful kick. Cardamom is particularly well suited to woody, chypre and ambery fragrance families.

Cypriol heart

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.