Bitter Almond
Bitter almond is a rich and slightly sweet fragrance note with a nutty, marzipan-like scent profile that carries subtle woody and spicy undertones. Its aroma is warm, comforting, and distinctive, adding a luxurious and gourmand quality to perfumes. Bitter almond imparts a unique, bittersweet character and is often used as a middle or base note to create depth and warmth in fragrance compositions. It pairs beautifully with floral, vanilla, and woody notes, contributing to fragrances that are sophisticated, indulgent, and full of allure.
History & Production: Bitter almond oil is derived from the seeds of the bitter almond tree (Prunus dulcis var. amara), which is primarily cultivated in the Mediterranean. The oil is extracted through steam distillation after removing toxic components such as hydrocyanic acid. In perfumery, bitter almond is prized for its ability to add a rich, nutty depth that enhances the warmth and complexity of fragrances, evoking a sense of opulence and warmth.