Smoky & Earthy

Castoreum smells like a smoky, animalic leather wrapped around warm, slightly sweet wood. Imagine the scent of a leather saddle warmed by sunshine, mingled with the earthy richness of wet tree bark and a whisper of musk. There's a creamy, almost creosote-like quality—like standing near a smouldering bonfire where old wood smokes slowly. It's distinctly sensual and primal, with an underlying sweetness that prevents it from becoming harsh. In dilution, it softens into something more seductive than repellent.

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.