Citrus

Calamondin smells like a brighter, sharper cousin of mandarin—imagine biting into a small, intensely acidic citrus fruit on a humid tropical morning. There's a piercing green-orange zestiness, almost lime-like in its tartness, but with creamy, waxy undertones reminiscent of bitter orange peel. It's less sweet than orange and more austere than lemon; imagine the puckering brightness of seville orange crossed with the green, slightly herbaceous snap of unripe citrus. The aroma is simultaneously juicy and dry, with a faint floral whisper.

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.