Well Gents, how are all of ya'? How are you finding these insights into raw materials? I really appreciate you taking the time to read and share your thoughts! My goal is to give you a sense of what these materials are like and how they come across, at least from my perspective (nose)! I’m about two-thirds of the way through my exploration and have learned a tremendous amount through both research and firsthand experience with these materials. I hope my notes convey a little bit of that journey and the unique qualities of each ingredient.
I'm really excited about this sample because "olibanum," also known as "frankincense," is a raw material I've already covered. It raises an interesting question: if these two names refer to the same material, why are they treated separately in my set? Instead of repeating what olibanum is (you can find that information here), I want to delve into a comparison between the two! There might be distinct differences worth noting, perhaps related to their sources or maybe collection processes. I’m eager to explore these potential variations and discover what sets them apart. Let’s find out together! When I smell Olibanum versus Frankincense: Olibanum offers a rich, resinous depth that feels warm and enveloping, with a smoky, balsamic edge that's both soothing and mysterious. It’s not just woody but has an earthy, spiritual quality to it. It lingers with a refined, almost exotic warmth, giving a sense of timelessness and depth, making it both grounding and subtly luxurious. While frankincense and olibanum both share this resinous warmth, frankincense typically has a brighter, more citrus-like top, whereas olibanum presents a deeper, earthier aroma with a more pronounced smoky undertone. The distinction between the two lies in such subtle nuances: frankincense tends to be more spicy aromatic and uplifting, while olibanum offers a more complex, grounding smokier scent profile.
What say you Gents? Any experience with Olibanum heavy fragrances? What ones do you like or dislike? What ones out there would you like to try? And for you seasoned fragheads, what fragrances would you recommend to beginners? Love to hear from 'ya!
Continue the #Journey