Vanilla
Vanilla is a beloved note in perfumery, known for its warm, sweet, and comforting aroma. Its scent profile is rich, creamy, and slightly spicy, evoking a sense of coziness and indulgence. Vanilla serves as a versatile base note, adding depth, warmth, and a subtle sweetness that enhances and balances other ingredients. It pairs beautifully with florals, woods, spices, and gourmand notes, making it an essential component in both classic and modern fragrances for a luxurious and inviting finish.
History & Production: Vanilla comes from the pods of the Vanilla planifolia orchid, which originated in Mexico and was historically cultivated by the Totonac people. It gained global popularity after the Spanish introduced it to Europe in the 16th century. Today, Madagascar is the leading producer of high-quality vanilla beans. The pods are harvested by hand, fermented, and cured to develop their rich, complex aroma. Extracting vanilla for perfumery typically involves solvent extraction or CO2 extraction to create vanilla absolute or oleoresin. This process preserves its iconic sweet and creamy scent, making vanilla a prized ingredient in creating luxurious, long-lasting fragrances.