Citrus

Blackcurrant smells like biting into a dark, juicy berry—tart and slightly winey, with a peculiar green-edged sharpness that catches at the back of your nose. It's floral without being perfume-like, with hints of cassis liqueur and crushed blackberry leaves. There's an almost tannic dryness underneath, as though you've just eaten the skin of the fruit. It's simultaneously fruity and herbaceous, never cloying, with a cool, slightly spicy undertone that makes it feel sophisticated rather than sweet.

Woody

Imagine walking through damp earth after rain, then crushing dried autumn leaves in your hands. That's patchouli's essence: earthy, almost animalic, with a subtle sweetness lurking underneath. It smells vaguely like rich soil mixed with dried tobacco and a whisper of chocolate. There's a dark, slightly musty quality—think opening an antique wooden chest. It's grounding and intensely aromatic, never delicate. Fresh patchouli has peppery brightness; aged patchouli becomes deeper, warmer, almost leather-like.