Spicy

Star anise smells like liquorice meets warm spice—imagine biting into a fennel seed but sweeter, with peppery heat underneath. There's an almost medicinal clarity to it, reminiscent of pastis or ouzo, that sharp anise character paired with subtle warmth. It's simultaneously cooling and warming: fresh like a winter morning, yet with creeping heat that builds gently on your skin. Not cloying or artificial, but deeply aromatic and slightly narcotic—the sort of scent that makes you want to breathe deeper.

Gourmand

Tonka bean smells like warm vanilla custard swirled with almond cream and a whisper of caramel tobacco. Imagine the sweetness of Madagascar vanilla, but richer and almost spiced—there's a subtle nuttiness underneath, as if someone's stirred in crushed amaretti biscuits and a pinch of cinnamon. It's gourmand without being cloying; the scent wraps around you like cashmere, creamy and comforting rather than sticky-sweet.