RESINS | Rich, Sweet, Spicy
Benzoin is a gum resin derived from the styrax tree's bark. It has a rich, vanilla-like scent that is somewhat sweet and spicy.
Despite its initial fluidity, exposure to air causes the sticky substance to harden into a brittle material resembling dark orange rock fractures. However unlike other resins like Oud or Labdanum, benzoin is a specific type of resin known as a 'balsam', as it contains high levels of Cinnamic and Benzoic acid resulting in a softer scent.
Among the various types 'Benzoin Siam', originating from Thailand, is particularly popular in perfumery. Benzoin Siam is graded based on quality, with the higher grades offering greater aromatic intensity as well as increased solubility in alcohol. Known for its sweet and warm profile, Benzoin Siam often evokes vanilla with subtle acrid undertones.
Benzoin has incredible longevity and plays a significant role in many 'Amber' or 'Gourmand' fragrances.
VIEW ALL BENZOIN FRAGRANCES