Turkish rose absolute

What Does It Smell Like?

Turkish rose absolute is pure, concentrated rose at its most voluptuous and intoxicating. Imagine walking into a grand perfumery on a hot day—that honeyed, almost wine-like sweetness that catches in your throat. It's far richer than fresh rose petals; closer to the scent of crushed damask rose leaves left in the sun, with deep fruity undertones (blackcurrant, plum) and a whisper of spice. There's an almost animalic warmth beneath, slightly powdery, utterly sensual.

Origin & History

Turkish rose absolute comes from Rosa damascena, primarily grown in the Kazanlak Valley of Bulgaria and the Isparta region of Turkey. The petals are harvested at dawn when fragrance oils are most concentrated. Producers use solvent extraction (typically hexane), leaving behind a thick, dark, honeyed substance—far more concentrated than the delicate rose oil obtained through steam distillation. This ancient tradition dates back centuries; Ottoman sultans prized these roses above all others.

In Perfumery

Perfumers use Turkish rose absolute as a luxurious heart note and fixative. Its richness demands respect—a little goes a long way. It adds opulence, depth, and longevity to compositions, anchoring lighter florals and brightening woody or amber bases. It's the ingredient behind classic Oriental and modern floral fragrances, lending that signature honeyed-spiced character that feels expensive and timeless.

Pairs Beautifully With

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