Raw Materials - Vanilla Absolute · Brotherhood Of Scent

Sep '24 (edited) • New Releases & Reviews 📝

Raw Materials - Vanilla Absolute

Vanilla is derived from the pods of the vanilla orchid, primarily Vanilla planifolia, which is native to Mexico but now cultivated in tropical regions worldwide. The harvesting process is labor-intensive, beginning with the pollination of its delicate flowers. Once the pods mature, they are harvested while still green, typically around eight months after pollination. After harvesting, the pods undergo a curing process that includes blanching in hot water, sweating, and drying in the sun. Vanilla absolute is obtained by extraction of the beans using volatile solvents. This lengthy process develops the rich, complex flavors and aromas that make vanilla a beloved perfumery ingredient.

Vanilla is a versatile and beloved ingredient in men’s fragrances, known for its warm, sweet, and comforting scent that can enhance the overall character of a composition. Vanilla’s rich and creamy profile can add depth and allure to masculine scents, often balancing sharper notes like spices, woods, and leathers. Its ability to evoke a sense of warmth and familiarity makes it an excellent base note, creating a smooth, rounded finish that lingers on the skin. Vanilla can impart sensuality, making it a popular choice in oriental and gourmand fragrances too, where it contributes to an inviting and sophisticated aura.

When I smell Vanilla: So, I have a bit of experience with vanilla; I made homemade vanilla extract a couple of years back. I soaked perforated vanilla beans in vodka and let it sit for 9 months. What came out was this rich extract that smelled very similar to the samples I now have! It's a warm sweet embrace, a familiar and comforting aroma that instantly transports me to memories of baking. It's sweet yet complex, with a creamy richness that lingers, thick and smooth, evoking images of freshly made pastries. There's a gentle spice beneath the sweetness too, making it feel indulgent, rich and lush.

https://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Maison-Francis-Kurkdjian/Grand-Soir-40816.html

https://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Initio-Parfums-Prives/Absolute-Aphrodisiac-30989.html

https://www.fragrantica.com/perfume/Parfums-de-Marly/Althair-84109.html

What say you Gents? Any experience with Vanilla forward 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!

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