Floral

Neroli smells like a luminous, almost intoxicating burst of fresh orange blossom—imagine pressing your face into a fragrant white flower on a Mediterranean spring morning. It's honeyed and delicate, yet surprisingly bright and slightly bitter, with a creamy, almost soapy undertone. There's a green, slightly peppery edge that prevents it from being purely sweet. It's the scent of a sun-warmed Seville orange grove in full bloom, honeyed yet crisp, floral yet citrusy.

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.