Birch

Birch gives perfumery two quite different things. Birch tar, made by heating the bark and wood, smells smoky and leathery, close to a campfire and tanned hide. The tree itself has a pale, clean wood scent with a green, slightly sappy freshness. Perfumers lean on the tar for dark, smoky effects and use it in small amounts, since it is strong. In a fragrance birch adds a dry, rugged character, and it pairs naturally with leather, tobacco, incense and vetiver. It can also give fresh, fruity openings a darker foundation that keeps them from feeling sweet.

Birch leans toward the base in this range, adding a smoky, leathery dryness that darkens woods and gives bright, fruity openings a firm foundation.