Spicy

79 perfumes

About

Pepper, cinnamon, cardamom

Scent Profile

The spicy accord is characterized by warm, piquant, and sometimes dry or sweet notes reminiscent of pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. It often conveys a sense of heat and vibrancy, with aromatic and sometimes slightly woody or resinous undertones. The overall impression is lively and dynamic, ranging from sharp and fresh to rich and comforting.

Citrus 3%

Floral 1%

Fruity 1%

Green 4%

Sweet 16%

Warm 77%

Woody 8%

Earthy 7%

Animalic 1%

Fresh 7%

Signature Notes

Notes most distinctively associated with Spicy fragrances.

Pepper 470

Cinnamon 446

Clove 193

Nutmeg 293

Ginger 380

Saffron 418

Cardamom 567

Coriander 207

Common Notes

Notes most frequently found in Spicy fragrances.

Chili 1

Pepper 470

Eugenol

Cinnamon 446

Clove 193

Nutmeg 293

Cinnamon Leaf 3

Beta-Caryophyllene

Mace 3

Ginger 380

Cardamom 567

Pimento Leaf 3

History

Spicy accords have been present in perfumery since ancient times, with spices such as cinnamon and cardamom traded and prized for both their aromatic and preservative qualities. In Western perfumery, spicy notes became especially prominent in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often used to add complexity and warmth to oriental and chypre fragrances. The accord reflects global influences, drawing from culinary and ritual uses of spices in diverse cultures.

In Perfumery

Perfumers use the spicy accord to add warmth, depth, and complexity to both masculine and feminine fragrances. It is commonly paired with floral, woody, amber, and oriental notes, and can appear in top, heart, or base layers depending on the specific spices chosen. Spicy accords are often used to enliven compositions or to provide a distinctive, memorable signature.