Black Copal Resin
Note Profile
About
Black copal is the dark grade of copal resin. It is heavier and less bright than the white grade: balsamic and earthy, with a green, fruity, caramel edge that some origins show strongly and others not at all.
Scent Profile
Black copal resin smells heavy and balsamic, darker and less bright than the pale grade. A rich, earthy note runs under it, close to damp ground. Some batches show a green, fruity brightness with a caramel edge, though others show none of it. Underneath sits a plain, dry woody resin base, with faint traces of citrus, spice and light floral notes depending on origin.
ScentWheel
Read off the wheel, not a label applied to the note.
ScentArt
Origin
A trade colour grade, not one botanical species. Black copal is sold as Protium copal from Guatemala, Protium paniculatum sold as copal negro from Peru, aged and oxidised Bursera resin from Mexico, and darkened Agathis or Manila copal from the Philippines. It is burned as incense far more often than it is distilled. Apothecary's Garden reports that the Peruvian material 'yields a gorgeous and fragrant emerald green essential oil when distilled'. The published Copal note already carries the white and Mexican grades as aliases. This row is the dark grade only.
Usage in Perfumery
Measured 2026-08-30: 3 Parfumo placements across 2 brands, and none on Fragrantica. Use it where copal is wanted as a base weight rather than as a bright resinous top.
Similar Notes
Perfumes featuring Black Copal Resin
A selection of reviewed perfumes where Black Copal Resin appears prominently.
No perfumes featuring this note have been reviewed yet. Check back soon.