Spicy

Ginger smells like a warm spice with a sharp, almost peppery bite that makes your nose tingle pleasantly. Imagine cracking open a fresh ginger root—there's an initial citrusy brightness with subtle floral undertones, followed by a dry, slightly woody heat. It's not fiery like chilli; rather, it's a refined warmth that feels both comforting and invigorating, reminiscent of freshly grated ginger in hot tea or the aromatic steam rising from spiced biscuits fresh from the oven.

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.