How to Decipher Scents: Guide for Fragrance Families & Notes

Every fragrance for men has a unique scent. It is made of many different notes that are classified into several families. We will dissect scent language, explore different mens fragrance families, and probe the intriguing world of notes. Help center.

Understanding the Scent Notes

They are referred as notes. The fragrance’s different aromas combine together to produce the overall scent of the perfume. These notes are divided into 3 main categories.

The top notes are the first thing you notice when you apply a new fragrance. The top notes of a fragrance are typically crisp and energetic, in order to create a lasting impression.

Middle Notes or Heart Notes is the term used to describe the notes after top notes have faded. These are regarded by many as the essences of fragrances. These aromas are usually described as spicy, herbal or floral.

These notes provide the basis for a scent’s depth and lasting power. The base notes of a fragrance are thick and warming, often with oriental or woody undertones. Their scent can last for hours.

Fragrances Families: An Overview

Fragrance families can be formed based on their similar olfactory characteristics and scents. These are some of the most common scent families in men’s perfumes.

Citrus aromas are fresh and energizing, often including bergamot and lemon as their main notes.

These scents have a woody, earthy, inviting quality, with notes of sandalwood, cedarwood, and even vetiver.

Aromas with notes of amber, spices and resins have a distinctive oriental quality.

Fougere : These fragrances are fragrant and herbal, with notes such as lavender, oakmoss or coumarin.

The fragrances that are aquatic have a crisp, oceanic quality and remind you of sea breezes.

Understanding the notes and families of fragrances used by the industry will help you to make an informed decision when choosing a new scent that fits your personal style.