Before working for a fragrance and flavor company for several years, I had often wondered why cherry-flavored candy tasted nothing like the real thing. It turns out that just as perfumers have their classical accords to create the scent of rose, amber or jasmine, so do the flavorists. The cherry accord, for instance, is based on a compound called benzaldehyde, which has an almond-like scent, and since the molecule is present in cherry pits, it inspired the cherry flavor most of us recognize from sweets, liqueurs and cough syrups. Even if it lacks the tartness and floral accents of real fruit, today’s flavorists are bound by public expectations to keep to the classical cherry accord. Anything else may not register as cherry to many people.
In my recent FT magazine column, Scents of Cherries, I write about the flavor and fragrance of cherries and explore fragrances that capture something of the natural cherry scent. Cherry accords can appear in the most unexpected contexts in fragrances, from delicate colognes to warm orientals, without losing their distinctiveness. So, I share some of my favorites.
Right now, I’m also enjoying the cherry season, and I look forward to the sour cherries. They may taste tart, but they smell sweet and heady.
Photography by Bois de Jasmin
FAQs
The cherry accord, for instance, is based on a compound called benzaldehyde, which has an almond-like scent, and since the molecule is present in cherry pits, it inspired the cherry flavor most of us recognize from sweets, liqueurs and cough syrups.
What is the smell of cherries? ›
Cherries are renowned for their sweet, succulent aroma, which carries hints of tartness and a touch of sensuality. This multifaceted scent can range from bright and fruity to deep and indulgent. It is precisely this olfactory versatility that makes cherries such a beloved note in the world of perfumery.
Is cherry scent attractive? ›
There is hardly a fruit, I'd say, that's been praised as much as cherry. In many cultures, the cherry is a symbol of sensuality and seduction, and it is interesting to perfumers because it offers a multitude of interpretations. At the same time, it is perceived as a very erotic fragrance that is exceptionally spirited.
What fragrance note is cherry? ›
Cherry (family Rosaceae, Prunus cerasus) is one of the most interesting fragrant notes in the perfume industry. In perfumes, it is primarily a seductive, sensual, and somewhat edible top note that perfectly balances between sweetness and tartness.
What makes cherry scent? ›
Benzaldehyde is found in low levels in the aroma chemical makeup of cherry fruit; however, this material has become the benchmark of what a cherry flavor should be perceived as and is used in higher concentrations for more impact, which isn't always truly representative depending on the varietal of cherry you are ...
What does the cherry scent mean spiritually? ›
Throughout Japan, the Cherry, or 'Sakura' tree is representative of good fortune, new beginnings and revival. Folklore says that when the Sakura spirits release their gorgeous fragrance in springtime, their gift of beauty and elegance is to be truly celebrated!
Why do I smell cherries? ›
Phantosmia refers to detecting smells that aren't really there. It's a symptom of many common conditions, including allergies, colds and upper respiratory infections. It could also indicate a brain-related condition, including epilepsy, stroke or Alzheimer's disease.
Which is the most seductive smell? ›
Vanilla always ranks high in the game of seduction thanks to its aphrodisiac-like qualities that capture a man's attention. Musk's second-skin aroma, with a seductive woody and earthy scent, is another alluring essential… and you can never go wrong with sandalwood, known to stimulate desire.
What smell is sexally seductive? ›
“Vanilla, jasmine, ginger, patchouli, sandalwood… all these are known to have great powers of attraction and provoke aphrodisiac reactions,” describes Ricci.
What is a man's favorite scent on a woman? ›
Fragrant Notes That Men Love on Women
On the other hand, light florals such as jasmine and lavender with fresh citrusy scents are captivating as expected and these scents can easily strike men's attention. Meanwhile, musk and sandalwood are also popular fragrant notes that men find seductive.
Meet Taylor's signature scent, Tom Ford's Santal Blush. All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission. Growing up, I was all about fruity, fresh scents.
Is cherry a summer scent? ›
Cherry perfume—more specifically this brand-spanking-new cherry perfume from Juliette Has a Gun—will make the perfect signature scent for summer.
What perfume smells like cherry in the air? ›
Tsarina the perfume has romantic references to fairy tales and the opulence of courts: delectable candied citruses, the waxy, melted candle-like nuance of sandalwood, and the fine leather/fur presence provided by orris and labdanum.
Why are cherries seductive? ›
"The image [of the cherry] is based on an idea of ripeness—and thus the virginity tends to be seen as something that, sooner or later, is due to be lost," distinguished slang lexicographer Jonathon Green writes in Green's Dictionary of Slang, in which he also traces the origins of virgins "losing" their cherry, or ...
What flowers smell like cherries? ›
Heliotrope. The heliotrope's tiny, white, or purple-red blooms offer a distinct vanilla-cherry scent that has earned it the nickname the “cherry pie plant.” The flower offers well more complexity than a pastry with fruit filling, however.
What does cherry perfume mean? ›
The use of cherry blossom notes in perfumery can be traced to their origin in Japan, where they hold deep symbolic meaning. The subtle and ethereal scent of cherry blossoms evokes a sense of grace, femininity, and delicate beauty.
What does cherry in the air smell like? ›
Juicy, black cherry to be exact, accented with sweet raspberries and a refreshing twist of crisp mandarin.
What chemical smells like cherries? ›
Is it used to flavour other things, too? Yes, as well as obvious almond foodstuffs like marzipan, Bakewell tart, and Amaretti biscuits, benzaldehyde is used to provide the characteristic cherry/almond smell of some lozenges, shampoos, and even soap.
What is the most attractive fruit smell? ›
Women are attracted to the smell of fruit like lemons, limes, grapefruits, oranges, and tangerines. Citrus is often used in aromatherapy for its mood-boosting benefits. It may even have positive effects on the limbic system. One study found that the scent of lemon helped improve body image and self-confidence.
Why does my room smell like cherries? ›
If Your Home Smells Like Rotting Cherries, It's Probably a Stink Bug Invasion. Picture this: you come back to the comfort of your home after a long day of work, but as soon as you open the door, the vile stench of rotting fruit fills the air. It may surprise you, but the nasty culprit is likely a group of stink bugs.
