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.

Floral

Rose smells like romance bottled. Imagine walking through a garden after rain—that's the green, slightly damp quality. Then there's the sweetness: honeyed, sometimes with a whisper of spice and subtle fruit notes. Depending on the variety, you might detect hints of honey, jam, or even a peppery warmth. It's never cloying if it's genuine; there's an elegant complexity, a velvety depth that makes you want to inhale again.