Tag: gourmand

A Christmas Cake of Fragrance

Seeing as our sense of smell makes up to 80% of what we taste, we’re treating this festive season as a perfect excuse to celebrate in fragrant form (as well as stuffing ourselves, obvs). And how handy that Christmas cake contains a veritable perfumer’s dream of aromatically enticing ingredients: think of that boozy fug of brandy, the glisten of candied peel, the succulent delight of soaked fruits, and toasted nuts cosseted in sugar and spice. The following fragrances gather those traditional ingredients and swirl them into perfumed form, ready to be worn as your own festive pud – and thankfully, minus the washing up.​..

 

 

 

 

Kajal Almaz

A jewel-bright opening of bergamot and blackcurrant quickly gives way to a tumble of ripe raspberry, rose and heliotrope, like sugared berries spooned over warm sponge. In the base, vanilla, amber and an addictive brown sugar accord melt into woods and musk, evoking the crust of caramelised sugar on a baked dessert and the gloss of fruit soaked in syrup. It feels like the gleaming, ruby-studded crown of the Christmas cake itself.​

£175 for 100ml eau de parfum bloomperfume.co.uk

 

 

 

Boadicea the Victorious Majestic

Here, the spices and red fruits are dialled up to decadent effect: lemon and red fruits sparkle at the top, laced with cardamom and resinous labdanum for instant warmth. A richly spiced heart of cloves, cinnamon, saffron, florals and leather unfurls over a base of vanilla, cocoa – tinged patchouli, oudh, amber, tonka, woods and musk, like slices of jewel – bright cake set on polished wood in a room filled with incense and candlelight.​

£360 for 100ml eau de parfum boadiceaperfume.com

 

 

 

Thursday Fragrance Magic + Science

The composition reads like a confectioner’s dream: candied peel, sour cherry, cardamom, sugared violet and musk coming together in a deep, sweet and spicy haze. The candied peel brings that chewy, citrus-sugared zing you get when you first cut into a densely fruit-packed cake, brightening the darker cherry and spice while musk softens everything into a cosy, skin hugging glow.​

£125 for 100ml eau de parfum thursdayfragrance.co.uk

 

 

 

 

Amouage Overture Woman

Brandy is writ large here as an opulent calvados-esque accord of apple, saffron and bergamot, immediately conjuring a glass of something golden poured over warm pudding. As it develops, rose, benzoin, myrrh and cinnamon melt into frankincense, leather and labdanum, becoming a luxurious, boozy amber that feels like the delicious anticipation as that brandy-sloshed cake is ceremonially set alight to sizzle seductively.​

£320 for 100ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com 

 

 

 

 

 

Widian Almond

From the first spritz, creamy almond is draped over juicy mandarin, raspberry, plum, peach and a hint of coconut, like the marzipan layer being smoothed over a mound of glazed fruit. A bouquet of white florals in the heart softens the nuttiness, while a base of patchouli, ambrette, Siam benzoin, vanilla and musk turn it into a plush, almond-cream fantasy, echoing frangipane tart and thickly rolled marzipan icing.​

£156 for 100ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

 

 

THoO Dates Delight

Riyadh dates and peony create a luscious, almost jammy opening that feels like spooning sticky date paste from a bowl, ready to fold into batter. In the heart, coumarin, caramel, tonka bean and cinnamon swirl together before a base of honey, labdanum, benzoin and an icing sugar accord settles on the skin – a dusting of sweetness that perfectly captures that final sifting of sugar over a rich, fruit-laden masterpiece.

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Pumpkin Spice Latte Season: perfumes giving PSL

Love them or loathe them, Pumpkin Spice Lattes are back. Yes, the PSL has returned to herald the season of crunchy leaves, oversized scarves and questionable woolly hats. For some, the very idea conjures disdain – too sweet, too hyped, too “basic” – but really, isn’t that missing the point? The iconic PSL blend smells downright divine, its tumble of cinnamon, clove, nutmeg and ginger swirling into a haze of autumnal comfort.

And in truth, there’s very little actual pumpkin in a Pumpkin Spice Latte. The “pumpkin” is mostly nostalgia talking. So, for those of us who prefer to wear our seasonal indulgences rather than drink them, the PSL profile is surprisingly easy to recreate in perfumed form – or to gently layer into being. But where did this contemporary cultural phenomenon begin?

Before Pumpkin Spice fever became a marketing machine, it started in coffee-central, Seattle, back in 2003. A small team at the Starbucks Liquid Lab – led by Peter Dukes, then Director of Espresso – were asked to come up with a new autumn drink. Pumpkin pie was a classic American comfort, but no one had thought to bottle its scent and warmth into a cup of coffee before. The first test took place in just 100 stores across Washington, D.C. and Vancouver. Cue immediate mania.

 

 

The PSL went national the following year, and by the time Facebook and Twitter joined the party, it had become less a drink and more a cultural phenomenon. With it came a tidal wave of pumpkin-spiced everything – candles, lip balms, even washing powder – and an aroma that’s now synonymous with ‘sweater weather’ itself.

If you love PSLs but think wearing one might sound kitsch, remember that (apart from those with PSL proudly in their name), these aren’t as overt. And layering can be your fragrant friend – you are in complete control, and can create your own seasonally spiced extravaganza to your own tastes.

 

 

Now, whatever your opinion of the PSL, we’re encouraging you to fight through the froth and allow yourself to fall for these gloriously spiced scents. We suggest…

 

 

 

 

Etat Libre d’Orange Like This

Inspired by actor Tilda Swinton’s idea of “home in a bottle,” Etat Libre d’Orange Like This was composed by Mathilde Bijaoui with yellow tangerine, ginger, pumpkin, immortelle, Moroccan neroli, Grasse rose, vetiver, heliotrope and musk. It feels like autumn wrapped in cashmere – cosy but clever. Ginger whirls with velvety pumpkin sweetness, evoking the scent of a pie emerging from the oven. A fragrance you’ll want to wear while watching leaves fall, from your favourite window seat.

£70.95 for 100ml eau de parfum allbeauty.com

 

 

 

Lush Pumpkin Spice Body Spray

Pairs perfectly with an oversized scarf and a trip to the pumpkin patch. Clove and ginger mingle with golden carob resin and carrot seed oil, creating an instant hit of nostalgia and a generous dose of compliments. Carob resinoid brings deep, caramel decadence – a wink to anyone who dares call Pumpkin Spice “basic”. Carrot seed oil softens the spices with gentle warmth, as comforting as a morning latte between mittened hands. Made with organic ethanol from sugar cane in a circular, zero-waste system, it’s the perfect scent to spritz over chunky knits and let autumn envelop you.

£28 for 200ml body spray lush.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Goldfield & Banks Ingenious Ginger

For those who prefer suggestion over sweetness, Goldfield & Banks Ingenious Ginger captures PSL warmth with a fresher twist. Its star ingredient, Australian Red Back Ginger, feels citrusy and solar rather than sticky. Bergamot, mandarin, magnolia, vanilla, amber and sandalwood whisper of sunsets across the Atherton Tablelands. Sunrise notes shimmer bright and juicy, while sunset notes bring floral, ambered spice that feels like a PSL enjoyed under tropical skies.

£140 for 100ml parfum harrods.com

 

 

 

Jo Malone London Ginger Biscuit Cologne

Truly one of THE most deliciously festive fragrances they’ve ever created, this smells like a bakery at golden hour. Ginger, nutmeg and cinnamon swirl around roasted hazelnut, caramel and vanilla-tonka richness, the whole thing buttery and crumbly at the edges. Perfect for layering with other Jo Malone scents to add that spiced creamy effect without veering into dessert territory. A PSL enjoyed in a vintage china cup and wearing silk pyjamas rather than a paper cup at the bus stop, perhaps?

£128 for 100ml eau de parfum jomalone.co.uk

 

Other PSL-adjacent scents perfect for layering? Try these!

 

The Merchant of Venice Accord di Profumo Tonka Venezuela – Rich, sensual and tempting, this celebrates the tonka bean’s toffee and cocoa aspects. The nuts fall and are roasted, their resinoid distilled into an addictive scent recalling caramel, coffee and imagined delights, an ideal note for deepening any composition.

The Merchant of Venice Accord di Profumo Patchouli Indonesia – Velvety woods and soft greenery tangled with earthy tobacco notes – a PSL base in perfume form, grounding, enveloping and irresistibly wearable. Crafted from hand-dried, fermented leaves distilled into oil on the island of Sulawesi, its depth completes the blend beautifully.

The Merchant of Venice Accord di Profumo Zafferano Iran – Saffron, the red gold of spices, glows in this luminous blend where zesty freshness meets amber, cistus and honey. A mist of this feels like sprinkling your perfume wardrobe with sunlit spice, in any season. But it’s so right for right now, in our humble opinion.

£65 for 30ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Floris Honey Oud – Celebrating Nature’s Gift

Floris Honey Oud is one of those rare scents that manages to wrap you in opulence without weighing you down – the perfect fusion of an approachable, contemporary decadence and centuries-old expertise. Now that Floris has gloriously extended the line to include indulgent body care rituals, we think now is the perfect time to allow yourself to be enraptured by this honey-haze, no matter if you were already a fan of this cult scent, or are ready to experience it for the first time.

Let’s start at the delicious beginning, shall we…?

 

 

 

 

 

From the very first spritz of the Floris Honey Oud eau de parfum and you’re met by the velvety aromatic nuance of English honey, with a bright lick of bergamot and subtle golden sweetness, before settling into a cashmere-soft bed of rose and oudh. The oudh here is subtle, never brash, with the honey whispering over the top to soothe and soften. Anyone who’s ever flinched from oudh’s famous punchiness will find this heartwarmingly smooth – think of a velvet-smoking jacket rather than a bonfire’s blast of smokiness. Vanilla and amber round off the composition, making it cuddly, grown-up, and thoroughly moreish.

Floris Honey Oud eau de parfum £160 for 100ml 

 

 

 

Extending the experience, the Floris Honey Oud Bath & Shower Gel is rightly described as an invitation to indulgence. It elevates a simple shower to a private ritual – think fluffy clouds of golden lather, enriched with olive oil to keep skin soft as a whisper. The scent is instantly recognisable, lighter but full of promise, as honey’s warmth and smooth oudh fill the steam. It leaves skin clean, refreshed and tenderly scented, ready for more. This is one of the easiest ways into honey and oudh layering for a daily dose of luxury.

Floris Honey Oud Bath & Shower Gel £32 for 250ml

 

 

 

 

Completing the heavenly honeyed harmony, Floris Honey Oud Body Moisturiser is as lush as honey-rippled cream. Quick to absorb and never sticky, this lotion cloaks the body in a gentle sheen – courtesy of sweet almond oil, jojoba, and vitamin E. The fragrance, as with the other matching products, balances the duality of comforting honey and woody oudh. Slathered generously, it secures hydration and radiance, all while turning one’s daily routine into a delightful, multi-sensory escape that makes every limb feel worthy of its perfumed poetry.

Floris Honey Oud Body Moisturiser £35 for 250ml

 

 

 

 

It’s impossible to talk about Floris without touching on their remarkable heritage. Established in 1730 by Juan Famenias Floris and his wife Elizabeth, the house is a living symbol of British perfumery, still operating from its original Jermyn Street boutique nearly 300 years later. Royalty, writers, and anyone with a refined nose have made their fragrant pilgrimage to the door. If you’d like to know more, do drift over to our page dedicated to the house of Floris and its fascinating history.

 

 

 

And for those with a curiosity for honey far beyond toast and tea, our senses were spirited away at a recent workshop at Floris, helmed by the brilliant Sarah Wyndham Lewis [aka the ‘Honey Sommelier’. Follower her @honeysommelierlondon on Instagram]. It was a revelation to discover just how many personalities honey could have, depending on flower, region, and even the temperament of the bees.

 

 

One spoonful might taste and smell like toffee or fresh hay, while another edges towards citrus peel or old leather-bound books. The nuances were astonishing, and they made it clear why honey brings such rich, malleable character to Honey Oud’s composition – it binds, tempers and elevates the oudh with each expertly-blended drop.

 

 

When Floris laces such a historic ingredient with modern craftsmanship and offers it in a suite you can layer – fragrance, shower gel, body lotion – something marvellous happens. It’s a little like being enfolded in the golden afternoon sun of late autumn’s embrace. The world outside may be as unpredictable as ever, but within these honeyed clouds, we’re sure you’ll find nothing but pure contentment.

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Nuts about perfume? Join us in adoring THESE nutty scents!

Nuts about perfume? Well, so are we – and the world’s most adventurous noses, it seems. There’s something irresistibly comforting, decadent, and dare we say, downright addictive about nutty notes in fragrance. From the smooth and creamy to the lavishly roasted, perfumers are increasingly drawn to the evocative warmth nuts can bring, spinning them through bouquets of florals, glimmering citrus, or velvety gourmands for truly unforgettable blends.

So, prepare to be seduced by scents that wrap you in plush pistachio, gloriously golden hazelnut, toasted sesame, delectable almond and smoky, velvet-draped walnut. Whether you fancy a spritz of nostalgia or crave something wickedly moreish for autumn’s chill, these bottles promise pure pleasure with every spray. Let’s crack on and explore the nutty wonders making us swoon right now…

 

 

 

 

[Pistachio]: Ataratma Chakra Champaca

 Caroline Dumur channels the energy of the sacral chakra, crafting a nutty white floriental with a vibrant twist. Orange flower absolute, neroli and ylang ylang create an utterly intoxicating heart, crowned by an irresistible pistachio accord that adds a subtle green nuttiness and uplifting texture. Fruity florals and sparkling citrus oils swirl alongside champaka, playing on purity and joy while pistachio lends plushness and intrigue, as dazzling as spiritual energy itself.

£215 for 50ml extrait de parfum ataratma.com

 

 

 

 

 

[Sesame]: Experimental Perfume Club Tonka Sesame

Okay, look…neither sesame OR tonka are, technically, nuts (seeds, y’see?) but they happen to be two of the most intensely nutty notes in perfumery (and people allergic to nuts can also be triggered by them); so, we’re including this in our nutty guide, notwithstanding. Whirling nutty green hazelnut and creamy almond around sesame, sweetened slightly by velvety tonka; heliotrope lends a floral, marzipan-like lift, while earthy patchouli and cedarwood add just the right grounding touch. The scent is golden, toasted, and utterly moreish. Addictively nutty in the best way. ‘Nuff said.

From £35 for 10ml eau de parfum experimentalperfumeclub.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Hazelnut]: Devotion EDP Intense

Well golly, Olivier Cresp didn’t have to do anything to convince us that he is the ultimate master of the gourmand – but here’s yet more evidence, as he confects a more powerful version of Devotion, dusting the original orange blossom and mouthwatering vanilla notes with gloriously roasted hazelnut. And as before, the bottle is the very embodiment of glamour, emblazoned with D&G’s signature Sacred Heart symbol. Nothing ‘demure and mindful’ about this, we’re pleased to note!

From £77 for 30ml eau de parfum escentual.com

 

 

 

 

[Almond]: Thursday Marzi

A joyfully nutty homage to marzipan, you cannot help but picture a traditional Battenberg cake, with its pretty pastel squares and squidgy almond layer. Starting off with an almost photorealistic hit of bitter almond, it’s soon softened by clouds of vanilla and brown sugar. Carnation adds a subtle, spicy warmth, while musk lends a gentle, comforting finish. Marzi is a scent that wraps the wearer in the happy memories of tea times past, so perfect for grey, chilly days ahead, bringing a nostalgic smile with every spritz.

£75 for 50ml eau de parfum thursdayfragrance.co.uk

(PSST! Why not try a sample as part of the Thursday Fragrance Discovery Set: 3 x 2ml for £20 in our Shop?)

 

 

 

 

 

THAMEEN Bravi

What if the diva lost her voice and needed this nut-powered power perfume to regain her bravado? This was the starting point for the third of Thameen’s ‘Britologne’ series, overseen by Christopher Chong’s infectiously passionate creativity, and realised by Bruno Jovanovic’s brilliance. Adding aphrodisiac ginger’s tingle to decadent tuberose, seducing with wild honey, and weaving the wonderfully smoky toasty-ness of walnut throughout, this packs a punch like a splintered crystal goblet smothered in velvet. Encore!

£250 for 100ml Cologne elixir harrods.com

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Perfectly Picked Pear Perfumes…

Pear is a radiant note in modern perfumery, known for its succulent fruitiness and cheerful sweetness. In scents, pear can evoke the dew-spangled, juicy bite of ripe fruit or lend a more translucent, watery green aspect – a delicate alternative to brighter citruses. Its rounded, mellow nature means perfumers often use pear to create a sense of lightness, to harmonise white florals, or to bring an appetising, almost mouthwatering quality to both feminine and unisex compositions.​

Extracting true pear essence is challenging, as the fruit yields little natural aromamaterial, so most pear notes in perfumery are skilfully crafted from both natural distillates and synthetics. Materials such as hexyl acetate and hexenol lend a fresh, juicy, and distinctly green-fruity profile reminiscent of pear. Aldehydes can also imbue fragrances with that shimmering, clean sensation often associated with pear. In a few instances, natural pear aroma may be produced as a by-product of pear juice distillation, carefully concentrated for perfumery use, though by far the most fine fragrances rely on expertly-balanced synthetic accords to ensure stability and vibrancy in a final composition.

With fruit having had a bumper year, and now being the perfect time to harvest ripe pears, we pay perfumed tribute to this note, and suggest you seek out these scents, ripe for the smelling…

 

Jeroboam Kun Amo

Kun Amo opens with a vivid burst of bergamot and mandarin, but it’s the gleaming, juicy pear that brings light and liquidity to the fruity top. Almond, jasmine and raspberry round out the heart, while a base of musks and ambery woods cushions and softens. Here, pear feels plush and nectarous, adding an inviting, gently succulent undercurrent that balances the musky depth and makes the fruity brightness linger just a little longer.​

£100 for 30ml extrait de parfum selfridges.com

Miller Harris Poirier d’un Soir

This fragrance is an ode to golden hour in an English orchard. The pear in Poirier d’un Soir is shrouded in bergamot and marigold, nuanced with rum for a warm, gently glowing opening. As it develops, the pear becomes more honeyed and plush, nestling into peony, Turkish rose, a delicate whisper of spice, and finally, musky birch and cedarwood. The pear note here feels autumnal—crisp at first, then mellow, surrounded by twilight florals and a wisp of smoke.​

£140 for 100ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

BDK Parfums Bouquet De Hongrie

Bouquet De Hongrie is an airy, luminous floral wrapped around a juicy pear note that glows in the opening. Blackcurrant and strawberry add vibrancy alongside the pear, giving the initial impression of fresh-cut fruit. As the florals—particularly Turkish rose and jasmine—emerge, the pear lends dewiness and lift, while a soft musk and cedar base keeps the whole composition transparent, sheer, and romantic.​

£190 for 100ml eau de parfum johnlewis.com

Ormonde Jayne Damask

Ormonde Jayne Damask weaves pear tightly into its tapestry from the very start. Blackcurrant and Italian lemon offer tartness, while the pear rounds those edges, offering a subtle juicy smoothness. Threaded with jasmine, pink pepper, and a gently powdery rose, the overall impression is both modern and classic. Pear in Damask acts as a soft, barely-there green sweetness, supporting the florals and offering a cushion for the musky amber and vetiver beneath.​

£175 for 88ml eau de parfum selfridges.com

Les Eaux Primordiales Couleur Primaire

Couleur Primaire is a study in cleanliness and harmony. Here, aldehydes and pear lead, evoking the sensation of freshly-laundered linen and the dew of an early morning. The pear offers watery, translucent sweetness, almost soapy in purity, and mingles with jasmine, peony and a musky, ambroxan-rich base. The overall effect is of clarity and ease—where pear feels like a breath of gentle, green air, integral to the scent’s tranquil, uplifting comfort.

£160 for 100ml eau de parfum lessenteurs.com

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

An apple (fragrance) a day…

In the gentle shifting of the seasons, as the air is laced with autumn’s orchard offerings – the ground scattered with gold – apple fragrances ripen anew. They evoke not only the fruit’s celebrated crispness but also ancient harvests, folklore of comfort and communion, and that exhilarating tang of orchard-fresh fruity skin against the cool, misty air.

In fragrance, this fruit can bring a fresh, mouthwatering quality – conjuring the sensation of biting into an apple at its ripest. Or it may meld with more gourmand deliciousness – offering a simmeringly-spiced or addictively caramel-swirled sensory experience. Each scent pays homage to the apple’s poetic versatility – framing it as a sun-warmed memory, a bite into brightness, an emblem plucked from centuries of scented dreams. But did you know that the apple belongs to the rose family?! Although to be fair, it boasts thousands of members, for there are countless varieties of Malus domestica, a tree whose origins trace back to Asia.

 

 

 

 

Indeed, apples have woven their way into the world of perfume since the medieval era of Arab perfumery. But it isn’t solely the fruit that’s cherished – apple blossom lends a soft, floral air, while a recent trend sees perfumers blending in ‘apple tree’ notes. These are, in fact, synthetic, fantasy ingredients – artfully crafted to infuse compositions with a nuanced fruity-woodiness.

As fruit notes can very rarely be distilled or otherwise extracted to use in fragrance, how are apple notes created in a fragrance? Some noses might opt for a ‘headspace’ recreation of the entire tree, others may use a combination or ‘accord’ of some of the following, depending on the effect they want to achieve. Perfumers, ever inspired by the apple’s evocative qualities, employ a blend of artistry and science to bring its scent to life:

 

 

 

 

Synthetic fruity esters – such as hexyl acetate and ethyl-2-methyl butyrate – capture apple’s juicy freshness and green tartness, conjuring both orchard-bright and honeyed skin facets.

Apple blossom accords are woven in for delicacy – layering a soft floral air like mist threaded through boughs at dawn.

Woody nuances or “apple tree” notes – evoke the entire tree in autumn, adding fruit-laden branches and sun-warmed wood to the composition.

Gourmand and spiced apples arise when perfumers marry apple notes with caramel, vanilla, cinnamon or clove – echoing the warmth of baked apples and festive tables.

 

 

 

 

Each creation is an aromatic echo of orchard walks and harvest gatherings, delicately crafted to evoke both freshness and nostalgia. And we have a wealth of apple-centric scents to tempt you with this season. The only question is, which will you pick first…?

 

 

 

 

 

DKNY Be Delicious original

Time to re-visit this original scent (and discover it’s still a stunner). Mouthwatering bites of green apple conjures the atmosphere of orchards on an autumn morning – dew still clinging to the grass. Its sheer juiciness forms the core – crisp, fresh but never cloying – wrapped in cucumber’s coolness and a glint of grapefruit, magnolia petal, and violet. As rose and tuberose unfurl, the apple’s tart brightness glistens through until dusk: awakening the senses and uttering the promise of harvest in every perfumed pulse.

£47 for 30ml eau de parfum theperfumeshop.com

 

 

 

 

 

Kajal Lamar Noir

The apple here is bathed in a dusky glow – glinting amid a tapestry of tropical fruits and velvet violets. In the opening, it feels like a secret just picked at sunset – sharp and lively, shimmering above caramel’s deep warmth and vanilla’s comfort. Rose and geranium lend their opulence – rendering the apple not as innocence but as allure. The finish, swathed in smoky woods and soft leather, whispers of autumn’s late nights – the languor of orchard shadows.

£198 for 100ml extrait de parfum kajalperfumes.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Penhaligon’s Artemisa

Nestled alongside plump nectarines, violet, and the silken touch of lily of the valley, the green apple is tender yet vibrant . Like orchard mist caught in moonlight, the apple note glimmers – illuminated by the brightness of the opening notes, then swiftly swirled with wisps of jasmine tea and vanilla. The fruit’s facet is gentle and luminous – a subtle nod to the season’s mellow drift and the comfort of gathering indoors as oakmoss and sandalwood blanket the senses.

£175 for 100ml eau de parfum sephora.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

Parfums de Marly Greenley

Here, green apple shines with the exhilarating clarity of autumnal sunlight – coursing through Sicilian bergamot and mandarin, a burst of crispness that’s almost effervescent. The heart pulses with cedar and violet – evoking the snap of twigs and foliage, while petitgrain and pomarose add layers of green and fruit. With oakmoss and amberwood grounding the trail, the apple is the soul of autumn – life’s vividness, distilled.

£220 for 75ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marc-Antoine Barrois B683 Extrait

In this extrait, apple is rendered acidic and seductive – harmonising with spice-laced pepper berries and cumin. The note’s tart freshness slices through leathery depth and smoky oud – both daring and intimately carnal. Violet leaf enhances the green bite, while sandalwood and patchouli soften its edge – revealing an apple that’s more than a fruit: it’s memory, skin, and velvet, ripened in autumn’s waning shadow.

£270 for 50ml extrait de parfum selfridges.com

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Ice-Cream Dreams – fragrances for feeling ‘out of office’

Gourmand fragrances given a dreamy ice-cream twist are currently having their moment in the sun, and now is the perfect time to seek out some perfumes melting the deliciousness of a sweet treat into something altogether more sophisticated, but still SO much fun to wear! Dreaming of your holiday, or making the most the most of these last days of Summer spent at home? Peruse this curated menu of cool, creamy, and (we must admit) utterly addictive scents, and pretend you hear the tinkling tones of the ice-cream van, instead of endless email notifications.

We think these ice-cream-inspired perfumes are the closest you can come to that blissful feeling of wandering barefoot along a beach, or meandering down the cute, cobbled back-streets of some picture-postcard destination, savouring every last lick of your gelato in hand (before it drips down your knuckles or – horrors! – is stolen by a swooping seagull).

So, even if you’re stuck at home for now, and moodily hate-liking the holiday pics of pals flooding your Insta feed; simply select your favourite ‘flavour’ of these ice-cream fragrances and pretend you’re in whichever of the scented scenarios you’d love to escape to. Basically, they’re a shortcut to being olfactorially in ‘Out of Office’ mode with every single spritz…

 

 

 

 

Juliette Has a Gun Miami Shake

Conjuring sun-soaked beaches and sultry nights, we begin with a burst of zesty lime and cool coconut water, evoking the refreshing allure of a tropical paradise. As it warms, creamy notes of salted caramel and vanilla are wrapped with silky sandalwood, warm skin, and white musk, making us long to cast off the cardies we’ve recently re-worn. Embodying the carefree spirit of Miami, think instead: wafting in pastel resort wear, and sunset strolls while savouring a waffle cone piled high with sweet treats.

 From £25 for 7.5ml eau de parfum spacenk.com

 

 

 

 

SokiLondon Cleopatra

An ‘Orange Gelato’ accord is conjured via cool, juicy mandarin sumptuously swirled into glossy vanilla and sandalwood’s milky smoothness, while orange blossom, neroli and jasmine sambac are petals scattered on a sun-kissed breeze across sand dunes. One to wear while embodying full-on Queenly vibes, we feel, it’s described by the house as not so much being worn but ‘wielded’! So, ditch the flipflops for a gilded sandal; switch up the jeans and a tourist t-shirt for a goddess gown, and waft regally while liberally spritzed in this…

£79 for 50ml eau de parfum sokilondon.com

 

 

 

 

Jo Malone London Raspberry Ripple

Cleverly rippling the raspberry with redcurrants, even if you’re not a gourmand lover we urge you to give this a go on skin: the fragrant fusion is nowhere near as sweet as you’d think! Using a raspberry / redcurrant melange feels lusciously piquant (freshly picked berries, not that neon pink syrup), with hints of the waffle cone and a white musk dry down adding further to the nostalgic smiles. Playfully balancing the best of childhood memories with a beautifully wearable chicness, this limited edition summer special feels so joyful to wear, and impossible to resist.

 From £59 for 30ml Cologne jomalone.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

Moschino Toy 2 Pearl

We’ve always felt Toy’s bottle was more than a little genius, but in this glorious rendering, the cuddly curves shimmer with iridescent colours reminiscent of a sunset refracted in a pearl’s lustre while nestling on the seabed. The scent within is inspired by Tahitian mother of pearl, with icy lemon sorbet and oregano lifting freesia and jasmine to the wonderfully evocative ‘warm sand’ note in the fragrant finish. Putting more fun into the finale are vetiver, cypress and suitably snuggly musks. Come for the bottle, stay for the scent!

From £49 for 30ml eau de parfum theperfumeshop.com

 

 

 

 

4160 Tuesdays What I Did on My Holidays

Ah, now this is pure scent-memory, bottled; capturing the essence of British seaside holidays when caravans and ‘Knobbly Knee Competitions’ were the thing (instead of boutique hotels and jet-skiing). Imagine the salty breeze mingling with the sweet aroma of candy floss and mint rock from the local amusement arcades. The scent of suntan lotion lingers as you excitedly explore rock pools, and the day ends with a warm café visit, your skin still tinged with bright sun, sea scents, and the biggest knickerbocker glory you’ve ever seen. Sensory time travel to carefree days…

£65 for 50ml eau de parfum in our shop

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Savour the Scent: Afternoon Tea-Inspired Perfumes to Delight the Senses

Surely few rituals are as quintessentially British as Afternoon Tea – a tradition that has become a byword for elegance, comfort, and a touch of indulgence. From its origins in the 19th century – supposedly when Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, first felt a “sinking feeling” in the late afternoon [don’t we all, dear?] and requested tea with a light snack; the custom has flourished into an occasion beloved by locals and visitors to these shores alike.

For many, Afternoon Tea is a gentle pause in the day, a chance to savour delicate sandwiches, warm scones, and exquisite pastries, all accompanied by the gentle clink of fine china and the soft hum of conversation.

 

 

 

 

It’s hardly any wonder, then, that tourists flock to experience this slice of British life, eager to immerse themselves in a world where time slows, and every sense is indulged. And indeed, that perfumers often look to this ritual for fragrant inspiration (as we shall see – scroll on for our olfactory suggestions!)

This spring, delightfully, the ritual of Afternoon Tea has found a new, scented dimension in the heart of London. The Rose Lounge at Sofitel London St James, renowned for its serene and enveloping atmosphere, has collaborated with Memo Paris to create a limited-edition Afternoon Tea experience, inspired by the house’s latest fragrance, Portobello Road. Until 20th June 2025, guests are invited to embark on a sensory journey where the boundaries between flavour and fragrance blur deliciously…

 

 

 

Sofitel says: ‘The Memo Paris Afternoon Tea at Sofitel London St James is available from 11th March to 20th June, served daily from 12 pm to 5 pm. Priced at £70 per person, or £80 with a glass of Champagne, this indulgent experience is the perfect way to celebrate the magic of Portobello Road. We look forward to welcoming you for an unforgettable Afternoon Tea, where the worlds of fine fragrance and gourmet cuisine meet.’

 

 

The menu, crafted by pastry chef Lerrick Coelho, draws directly from the rose-laden, rain-fresh notes of the Portobello Road perfume, with each treat echoing a facet of the scent. The Chicken Coronation on Toasted Croissant offers a sumptuous twist on a classic, while the Cornish Crab Roll brings a whisper of the British coast. Sweet creations such as La Rose – a marriage of rose, Yorkshire rhubarb, mandarin, and vanilla crème – and a Gold Chocolate and Earl Grey Slice evoke both the romance of London’s gardens and the sophistication of its tearooms. Even the zesty Yellow Carnival Passion Fruit Mango and Coconut Sphere transports the palate to sunnier climes, all within the opulent embrace of the Rose Lounge.

[For further inquiries about the Memo London Afternoon Tea experience, call the Sofitel team on (0)20 7389 7820 or email [email protected].]

 

In further celebration of this fragrant union of tea, cake, and scent – and to end our month-long look at the theme of tea fragrances, (but this time focusing on the cakes and vibe!) – we’ve chosen a selection of perfumes that perfectly evoke the spirit of Afternoon Tea in all its forms. Each fragrance conjures a different aspect of the experience – from the anticipation of a rain-dappled stroll through London’s backstreets to the irresistible allure of patisserie, marzipan, and birthday cake (to be enjoyed at any time!) and beyond.

So, let’s indulge, shall we…?

 

 

 

Memo Paris Portobello Road captures the excitement and charm of exploring London’s most intriguing backstreets, where antique shops beckon and the air is tinged with the promise of discovery. The fragrance opens with the dewy freshness of rain on stone, mingling with the elegance of rose and the green brightness of myrtle oil. It is as if one has escaped a sudden shower by ducking into a cosy yet impossibly elegant setting for Afternoon Tea, where the scent of fresh blooms and polished wood lingers in the air. The bottle itself, adorned with the artistry of Kate Daudy, is a visual tribute to the city’s creative spirit – a journey in liquid form, as evocative as the street that inspired it.

£235 for 75ml eau de parfum harveynichols.om

 

 

 

AKRO Bake is a revelation for those who thought the idea of a lemon cake-inspired scent might be too sweet or whimsical. Here, the gourmand genre is elevated: the perfume opens with a burst of bright lemon peel, cutting through the smooth, creamy heart of cake batter and airy sponge. There is a luscious swirl of Chantilly cream, a whisper of rum, and a dusting of brown sugar and vanilla that lingers on the skin like the memory of the perfect patisserie. Perfumer Olivier Cresp has created a scent that is both nostalgic and utterly modern – a fragrant treat that tempts without overwhelming, as light and irresistible as a slice of lemon drizzle on a sunlit afternoon.

£80 for 30ml eau de parfum thefragranceshop.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thursday Marzi is a joyful homage to marzipan, conjuring the image of a traditional Battenberg cake with its pastel squares and squidgy almond outer layer. The fragrance begins with a bold, almost photorealistic hit of bitter almond, soon softened by clouds of vanilla and brown sugar. Carnation adds a subtle, spicy warmth, while musk lends a gentle, comforting finish. Marzi is a scent that wraps the wearer in the happy memories of tea times past – the anticipation of cake, the pleasure of sweet treats, and the freedom to indulge at any moment. It is as perfect for grey, chilly days as for the hopeful cusp of spring, bringing a smile with every spritz.

Try a sample as part of the Thursday Fragrance Discovery Set 3 x 2ml for £20 in our Shop

 

 

 

THoO Keep Glazed is a patisserie-inspired delight, designed to stimulate both nose and imagination. Inspired by the creations of renowned pastry chef Ksenia Penkina, this fragrance opens with a lively burst of frozen lemon, juicy mango, and the green freshness of strawberry leaf. The heart is a creamy blend of Chantilly, coconut, and a hint of ginger crumble, evoking the sensation of biting into an artfully crafted dessert. As it settles, fruity musk and precious woods create a soft, lingering finish. Keep Glazed is a solar, uplifting scent – bright, creamy, and just a little bit decadent, it is the olfactory equivalent of a patisserie window on a summer’s day, each note inviting you to take another bite.

£220 for 75ml eau de parfum harveynichols.com

 

 

Marissa Zappas Annabel’s Birthday Cake is a whimsical, otherworldly celebration in scent. Imagine a lavish garden party, where angels gather around a pastel-hued cake adorned with rich tuberose frosting and candied rose petals. The fragrance opens with the soft, powdery embrace of heliotrope and a dusting of lemon sugar, followed by the creamy sweetness of cake fresh from the oven. Honeycomb and roasted tonka add depth and warmth, while cocoa absolute brings a subtle richness. Annabel’s Birthday Cake is both playful and refined – a scent that balances the innocence of childhood celebrations with the sophistication of a grown-up tea party, leaving a trail of sweetness and joy in its wake.

From £12 for 2ml sample eau de parfum saintecellier.com

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Indulgent chocolate scents for EVERY taste

As Easter approaches and chocolate eggs beckon from every corner, there’s another way to indulge in the world’s favourite treat – one that lingers far longer than a fleeting bite. Chocolate fragrances have become something of gourmand perfume phenomenon in themselves, offering everything from creamy comfort to enigmatic allure. While the idea of wearing chocolate might once have raised eyebrows, today’s perfumers are deftly weaving this note into scents that are as complex and captivating as the finest truffles.

But how do we get the note of chocolate in a scent? Well, sometimes it’s extracted directly from cocoa beans, but he natural materials – Cocoa Absolute and Cocoa CO₂ extract – are costly and can be too subtle for many compositions. Instead, perfumers often turn to a creative palette of molecules: isobutyl phenylacetate for its waxy, cocoa nuance; vanillin for sweetness; and pyrazines for that roasted, bittersweet depth. Sometimes, even patchouli or tonka bean is used to echo chocolate’s richness, while certain musks can conjure the creamy sensation of white chocolate. The result? A spectrum of chocolate scents, ranging from playful and sweet to darkly seductive, each evoking the irresistible pleasure of chocolate in a new, wearable form.

Why the current obsession, though? Gourmand fragrances, with their edible, nostalgic notes, have been (as we’ve reported, often) utterly booming these past few years; and they truly are continuing that renaissance in 2025. Of the ‘foodie fragrances’, chocolate in particular taps into a collective longing for comfort and sensory delight, while also offering a sophisticated twist when paired with woods, spices, or florals. Chocolate scents can be statements of self-expression, storytelling, and pure olfactory escapism.

 

For those tempted to explore, here’s a handpicked selection of chocolate-centric scents that prove this note is anything but one-dimensional…

 

 

 

 

4160 Tuesdays Figs in White Chocolate

Once an insider’s secret for the brand’s ‘Scenthusiasm’ subscribers, this fragrance is now available to all – and what a treat it is. Imagine the green freshness of just-ripe figs, their flesh glistening beneath taut skin, enveloped in a buttery veil of white chocolate. The chocolate here is not cloying but creamy and nuanced, lending a gentle sweetness that caresses rather than overwhelms. It’s a fragrance that captures the anticipation of biting into a chocolate-dipped fruit: lush, inviting, and utterly moreish.

 From £70 for 30ml eau de parfum 4160tuesdays.com

 

 

 

 

Sabrina Carpenter Sweet Tooth Cherry Baby

Sabrina Carpenter’s latest olfactory offering arrives in a playful, chocolate-bar-inspired bottle – its deep red hue hinting at the delights within. This scent taps into the trend for cherry notes, but it’s the dark chocolate that anchors the composition, adding a sultry richness to the juicy fruit. Cashmere wood, peony, and glazed apple swirl around the chocolate, creating a fragrance that is both flirtatious and sophisticated. The chocolate note here is decadent yet balanced, offering a plush backdrop for the cherry to shine – a modern gourmand with irresistible charm.

 From £24.99 for 30ml eau de parfum theperfumeshop.com

 

 

 

JUSBOX Fifty Four

 Inspired by the legendary glamour of Studio 54, this fragrance is as subversive as it is dazzling. The chocolate note emerges on the dance floor alongside a boozy splash of Piña Colada and rum, soon joined by cinnamon bark and tobacco-infused patchouli. Here, chocolate is not sweet but smoky and mysterious, adding depth and intrigue to the composition. It’s the scent of velvet ropes and disco balls, of midnight escapades and whispered secrets – a chocolate accord for those who prefer their indulgence with a side of rebellion.

 £235 for 78ml eau de parfum harrods.com

 

 

 

 

Fabrica Della Musa Île Bourbon

 Named for the vanilla-rich island of Madagascar, Île Bourbon is a gourmand fantasy that swirls dark chocolate with creamy vanilla, spiced cardamom, and clove. The chocolate here is dark and seductive, its bitterness softened by the lushness of vanilla and the warmth of exotic spices. A breeze of Somalian incense drifts through, lending an air of mystery and sophistication. This is chocolate as a passport to faraway lands, a scent that lingers like the memory of a decadent dessert shared under starry skies.

 £195 for 100ml eau de parfum libertylondon.com

 

 

 

Sarah Baker Gold Spot

Sarah Baker’s Gold Spot is a tribute to the golden age of celebrity, and its chocolate note is as glamorous as a red-carpet moment. Bergamot and orange blossom bring a sunlit brightness, while butterscotch and a dusting of dark chocolate create a luscious, layered sweetness. The chocolate here is rich and luxurious, enveloped in the warmth of Laos oudh, Suyufi agarwood, and amber. It’s a fragrance that glows with opulence, conjuring the allure of old Hollywood and the thrill of being in the spotlight.

 £145 for 50ml extrait de parfum available in our Shop

 

Chocolate fragrances, then, are far more than a fleeting trend – they are a celebration of perfumery’s power to evoke pleasure, comfort, and adventure. Whether creamy or bitter, playful or mysterious, the chocolate note continues to enchant, offering a deliciously wearable escape for every mood and moment. This Easter – and beyond – why not indulge in a delicious fragrant treat of your own?

 

Written by Suzy Nightingale

Easter Egg Hunt: WIN a bottle of AKRO Dark!

As Easter approaches, we at The Perfume Society are delighted to offer you the chance to win something far more sophisticated than your average chocolate egg. One lucky winner will receive a full bottle of AKRO Dark, the sumptuous chocolate-inspired fragrance from the house founded by Master Perfumer Olivier Cresp – the very nose credited with popularising ‘gourmand’ fragrances – and his daughter Anaïs.

The Prize: AKRO Dark – A Chocolate Lover’s Dream

AKRO Dark is not your typical sweet confection. This is chocolate for grown-ups – a sophisticated olfactory experience that captures the essence of fine dark chocolate with remarkable authenticity. From the moment it touches your skin, Dark envelops you in a rich, bitter cocoa embrace that feels both decadent and mysteriously alluring.

The fragrance opens with robust, unsweetened chocolate and the caffeinated depth of bitter cocoa. As it develops, you’ll detect toasted hazelnuts bringing their distinctive nutty warmth to the composition. A whisper of cinnamon adds a gentle spice that perfectly complements the chocolate core, while the earthy, woody undertones prevent it from becoming overly sweet or dessert-like.

 

 

What makes AKRO Dark truly special is how it manages to capture the adult pleasure of fine dark chocolate – that moment of pure sensory indulgence when a square of 70% cocoa melts on your tongue. There’s something almost primal about it, a sophisticated sensuality that lingers on the skin for hours. Even as vanilla emerges in the dry down, the composition maintains its elegant, grown-up character.

This is not a fragrance that shouts; it smoulders. It’s the olfactory equivalent of that first bite of exceptional dark chocolate – transportive, enlivening, and utterly addictive. Just as the finest cacao can take you to the mountains of South America, AKRO Dark is a journey for the senses that radiates pure perfumed pleasure.

How to Enter Our Easter Egg Hunt

To be in with a chance of winning this stunning scent, we’ve created a special Easter egg hunt around The Perfume Society website. Follow the clues below to find all five Easter eggs hidden throughout our pages. Once you’ve discovered all five locations, simply fill in the entry form with your answers to enter our prize draw.

 

 

Your Egg Hunt Clues:

 

 

1: Truly Delicious: Our first egg is hiding on a page dedicated to the key ingredient in AKRO Dark. Where might you learn about the history, use and significance of this note in perfumery?

 

 

2: Meet the Master: Olivier Cresp is the genius behind AKRO Dark and countless other beloved fragrances. Seek out a behind-the-scented-scenes insight where he discusses his passion for gourmand creations, and you’ll find egg number two nestled among his words of wisdom.

 

 

3: An Eggcellent Discovery: The third egg has found a nest in the place where you can explore the story behind this indulgent fragrance house and its unique concept of capturing our greatest pleasures in perfumed form.

 

 

4: Egg Head: Your fourth egg is hiding on a page where you can explore all manner of tomes to feed your need for fragrant knowledge. But WHERE? Maybe you need to acquire a Taste for it?

 

 

5: Sweet Dreams: For your final egg, seek out our page dedicated to a trend-worthy bean that provides the sweet, creamy foundation to AKRO Dark’s composition. This beloved ingredient has a fascinating history and presence in perfumery, and has been dominating the gourmand trend for some years now…

 

The hunt begins now and the prize draw closes at midnight on Easter Sunday. The winner will be announced the following week. Remember, only entries with all five correct egg locations written on the entry page in this blog post will be entered into our prize draw.

 

Happy hunting, fragrance lovers! May the most dedicated chocolate aficionado win this most sophisticated of Easter treats – a fragrance that captures the essence of dark chocolate indulgence in a bottle that will last far longer than any Easter egg, and allow you to indulge in chocolate-laden decadence every single day!