Floral

Osmanthus smells like honeyed apricots kissed with delicate florality—imagine biting into a ripe stone fruit, then discovering subtle floral whispers underneath. It's softer than jasmine, warmer than gardenia, with a creamy sweetness reminiscent of peach nectar or dried apricot jam. The scent carries an almost indolic quality (similar to white flowers) but remains approachable and comforting, never heavy. Some detect subtle hints of caramel or honey, making it feel both gourmand and elegantly floral simultaneously.

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.