Green

Clary sage absolute smells like a sophisticated herbal whisper with an unexpected creamy undertone. Imagine crushing fresh sage leaves, then adding a touch of muscat grape skin and warm honey. There's a green, slightly peppery quality reminiscent of garden herbs after rain, but softer—almost powdery. Unlike common sage's sharp bite, this absolute feels luxurious and slightly intoxicating, with a faint ambroxan-like warmth that lingers on skin like expensive cosmetic powder.

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.