Civet

Civet is a fragrance note known for its intensely animalic, musky, and slightly sweet aroma with rich, warm undertones. Its scent profile is deep and bold, evoking a sense of exoticism and sensuality. Civet adds warmth, complexity, and a touch of intrigue to perfumes, often used as a base note to enhance the longevity and depth of a composition. It pairs well with florals, resins, and woods, contributing to opulent and sophisticated fragrances that exude boldness and luxury.

History & Production: Traditionally, civet was derived from the secretions of the African civet cat, collected from specialized glands. Due to ethical concerns, the use of natural civet has largely been replaced by synthetic alternatives that replicate its musky scent without involving animals. Synthetic civet compounds have become standard in modern perfumery, allowing perfumers to achieve the rich, musky depth associated with civet in an ethical and sustainable way. Despite its intense aroma when used alone, civet is valued in perfumery for its ability to add depth and complexity, enhancing the overall richness of fragrance compositions.