Apple in perfumery
In This Article
Inspiration from the Forbidden Fruit
As a symbol of the forbidden fruit dating back to ancient times, the apple has been a significant source of inspiration for perfume creators. While fruity notes have always been a part of perfume compositions, citrus fruits were predominantly used at the beginning of the century. It wasn't until the 1990s that perfumers began experimenting with new fruits such as melon, peach, apple, and lychee. One example is Nina by Nina Ricci, which features a bottle shaped like a candy apple. The perfume boasts a delectable floral blend sprinkled with a veil of candy apple, exuding femininity and becoming a highly coveted fragrance. Nina Ricci also showcased the green apple in Love by Nina, a delightful blend of green apple, frangipane, and lychee. 
Apples in Harmony with Olfactory Families
Apples can be combined with various olfactory families or facets, blending harmoniously with other fruits, flowers, spices, and aromatic notes. One unforgettable scent is Boss pour Homme by Hugo Boss, which features a mix of cinnamon and apple with a woody base of cedarwood, rosewood, and cedarwood. The result is a highly masculine fragrance. Apples also contribute to the creation of mouthwatering and alluring perfumes that are widely popular. Some blends, like Dalilight by Salvador Dali, incorporate apples with multiple olfactory families. In this fragrance, apple appears as a top note alongside tangerine and lemon, while ambergris, Atlas cedar, and white musk form the base notes. Jasmine and white peach settle in as heart notes, creating a fresh, light, and incredibly sweet combination. 
Although apples have been around for centuries, their inclusion in perfumes mainly dates back to the 1990s. With the vast array of varieties available, apples serve as an endless source of inspiration for perfume creators. Whether fresh, sensual, or indulgent, the apple has earned its place among fragrance designers. Moreover, its compatibility with different olfactory families is an invaluable characteristic.
Modern Interpretations of Apple in Perfumery
In recent years, the use of apple in perfumery has continued to evolve, with modern interpretations catering to diverse preferences and tastes. Perfume creators have discovered innovative ways to highlight the unique characteristics of apples, exploring their crisp, fresh, and fruity qualities in various compositions.
One example is DKNY's Be Delicious, which captures the essence of a fresh green apple, combined with cucumber, grapefruit, and tuberose for a refreshing and invigorating scent. This fragrance has become a staple for those seeking a clean, fruity, and modern aroma.
Another contemporary take on the apple note is Jo Malone's English Oak &Redcurrant, which pairs the tartness of red apple with the warmth of English oak and the tangy sweetness of redcurrant. This sophisticated blend creates a luxurious and elegant fragrance that appeals to both men and women.
Apple has also found its way into niche perfumery, with brands like Byredo and Le Labo incorporating this versatile fruit into their distinctive creations. Byredo's Pulp, for instance, combines the juiciness of apple with bergamot, blackcurrant, and cardamom for a bold and unconventional scent that challenges the traditional boundaries of fruity fragrances.
As the world of perfumery continues to evolve, it is evident that the apple's versatility and adaptability will ensure its presence in future creations. Whether used as a prominent note or a subtle accent, the apple remains a timeless and captivating element in the art of fragrance making.
