Blueberry

What Does It Smell Like?

Blueberry is deceptively subtle—nothing like biting into the fruit itself. Imagine the wispy sweetness of berry jam at the moment it's being made, before it darkens and concentrates. There's a faint powdery quality, almost like dusting your fingers with icing sugar mixed with crushed violet leaves. The scent whispers rather than shouts: slightly tart, gently fruity, with an underlying earthy undertone reminiscent of wet soil after rain. It's more perfume-sketch than photorealistic berry—ethereal and impressionistic.

Origin & History

Blueberry fragrance notes are almost entirely synthetic creations, developed in the twentieth century by molecular perfumers. Since natural blueberry contains virtually no volatile aromatic compounds, perfumers synthesised the character using combinations of fruity molecules (like ethyl butyrate and other esters) layered with subtle green, woody, and powdery accords. Some niche perfumers may work with blueberry leaf absolute, which captures more herbaceous character. Interestingly, this note exemplifies how perfumery is as much about imaginative interpretation as botanical accuracy.

In Perfumery

In compositions, blueberry typically appears as a supporting character—a fruity-green accent rather than a bold statement. It adds softness and a slight powdery texture to florals or woody fragrances. Perfumers favour it for creating gentle, approachable fruity scents without the aggressive sweetness of strawberry or raspberry. It often bridges between fresh citrus and warmer base notes, providing subtle complexity and a modern, slightly nostalgic quality.

Pairs Beautifully With

Featured In 14 Fragrances