Rose: Fragrance Profile

1. Overview

• Botanical name: Primarily Rosa damascena (Damask rose) & Rosa centifolia (Cabbage or May rose).

• Family: Rosaceae.

• Parts used: Fresh petals.

• Extraction methods:

  • Steam distillation → Rose Otto (essential oil).

  • Solvent extraction → Rose Absolute (richer, deeper scent).

  • CO₂ extraction → More true-to-flower.

• Note type: Heart note (the “queen of florals”).

2. Aroma Character

• Rich, floral, sweet, romantic, slightly spicy, honeyed.

• Nuances depend on species & extraction:

  • Rosa damascena → deep, spicy, honey-like, slightly citrusy.

  • Rosa centifolia → soft, powdery, sweet, petal-like.

• Subtle undertones: fruity (raspberry, lychee), green (leafy), or musky.

• Overall impression: luxurious, romantic, velvety floralcy.

3. Key Chemical Components

• Citronellol → fresh, rosy, slightly citrusy.

• Geraniol → sweet, rosy, floral.

• Phenylethyl alcohol (PEA) → soft, fresh, petal-like sweetness.

• Nerol, linalool, eugenol → citrusy, spicy, clove-like nuances.

4. Perfume Applications

• A pillar of perfumery, used in almost every fragrance family.

• Applications:

  • Floral bouquets (centerpiece or supporting).

  • Orientals/ambers (blended with resins, spices).

  • Chypres & fougères (balanced with moss, patchouli).

  • Modern gourmands (with vanilla, chocolate, fruits).

• Blends well with:

  • Floral allies → jasmine, iris, violet.

  • Spices → cardamom, clove, cinnamon.

  • Woods → sandalwood, oud, cedar.

  • Citrus & fruits → bergamot, lychee, raspberry.

  • Resins → frankincense, myrrh, amber.

5. Mood & Symbolism

• Symbolizes love, beauty, luxury, and sensuality.

• Mood impressions:

  • Romantic & passionate.

  • Nostalgic & elegant.

  • Comforting & nurturing.

  • Opulent yet tender.

 Quick Summary Table

In essence: Rose is the quintessential floral note in perfumery, a versatile heart that can be fresh, sweet, powdery, or dark and seductive depending on its treatment and pairings.