black pepper
Spicy Family
A piquant and invigorating spice, instantly recognizable and bold.
strong
moderate
0 fragrances
Spicy
Olfactory Profile
About black pepper
Black Pepper is a prominent spice note in perfumery, known for its sharp, spicy, and slightly woody aroma. Originating from the dried berries of the Piper nigrum vine, black pepper has been a valued spice and medicine for thousands of years, with its use recorded in ancient texts from Rome, Greece, and India. In perfumery, black pepper adds a burst of spicy warmth that can energize and uplift the fragrance composition. It is often used to introduce vigor and intensity to the top notes, making the fragrance more dynamic and intriguing.
Natural Sources
- •Piper nigrum vine
Synthetic Alternatives
Synthetic versions of black pepper are used in perfumery to replicate its spicy, warm character without the need for natural extraction, providing a consistent and versatile option for fragrance creation.
Perfumer's Tips
Used sparingly, black pepper can add a unique, spicy twist to a fragrance, enhancing its overall character. It is particularly effective in the top notes to grab attention and can be layered with deeper, woody or resinous base notes to create complexity.