Prune

What Does It Smell Like?

Prune smells like dark, concentrated sweetness with a subtle woody undertone—imagine biting into a sun-dried plum that's been stewed gently. It's rich and jammy, almost syrupy, with a whisper of earthy depth beneath the fruit. Unlike citrus's brightness, prune note carries a velvety, slightly fermented warmth, like the smell of a fruit compote simmering on the stove mixed with old oak wood. There's an almost vinous quality, reminiscent of plum wine or aged brandy.

Origin & History

Prune is primarily a synthetic creation, though it may reference natural prune or plum extracts. The note was developed to capture the sweet, dark character of dried plums without the weight of actual fruit materials. It's synthesised through olfactive molecules that mimic the compound esters found in fermented and dried plums. Interestingly, while prune sits in the fruity family, it has little to do with true citrus chemistry—it's marketed that way because it shares the "top note" brightness fruity accords do, despite behaving more like a dark, woody-sweet middle note.

In Perfumery

Perfumers deploy prune as a sophisticated sweetener that adds depth and complexity without cloying. It bridges fruity and woody territories, lending an almost gourmand quality. Often used in oriental and amber fragrances, it provides a plush, slightly decadent character that feels more mature than typical fruit notes.

Pairs Beautifully With

Featured In 11 Fragrances