rosemary

About rosemary

Rosemary, with its distinctive woody, evergreen scent, plays a pivotal role in the aromatic and herbal categories of perfumery. This note is characterized by its fresh, camphoraceous aroma, which can vary from deeply herbaceous and slightly medicinal to more resinous and balsamic, depending on its source and extraction method. Rosemary adds a crisp, invigorating lift to compositions, often employed in the top to middle notes of a fragrance to introduce a clean, vibrant energy. Its versatility makes it a favored element in a wide array of scents, from masculine fougères and chypres to refreshing colognes and even in some floral and citrus blends where its presence underscores the brighter, more volatile notes with a grounded, green depth.

Natural Sources

• •Steam distillation of the flowering tops and leaves
• •CO2 extraction for a more nuanced, true-to-plant profile

Synthetic Alternatives

1,8-Cineole, Camphor, Alpha-Pinene, Verbenone

Perfumer's Tips

In perfumery, rosemary is best used sparingly to avoid overwhelming other notes, particularly in fresh, aromatic, and herbal compositions. It pairs well with citrus notes like lemon and bergamot for a vibrant opening, as well as with woody and spicy notes, which complement its balsamic undertones. Rosemary's potency means it can dominate a blend if not carefully balanced, so it's often used to add a crisp, green accent rather than as the main focus of a fragrance.

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