Gourmand

Rum

Note Profile

Prepared 681 perfumes

Also Known As

Spiced rum, spicy rum, White Rum

About

A sweet, molasses-tinged boozy note with caramel, dried fruit and warm spice facets. Common in oriental fragrances.

Scent Profile

Rum in perfumery is characterized by a rich, sweet aroma with pronounced notes of molasses, caramel, and dried fruits. It often reveals subtle undertones of warm spices such as cinnamon and clove, along with a gentle boozy warmth. As it develops, it can evoke hints of toasted sugar and dark wood.

ScentWheel

Breadthfocused

EnvelopeBase · ~12h lasting

Family Sweet & Gourmand, Fruity

Read off the wheel, not a label applied to the note.

What this is made of

Rum absolute

A natural extract

CAS 943609-24-3

Rum absolute (IFRA NCS).

How the layers join

Origin

Perfumery rum accords are typically created using natural isolates and aroma chemicals that replicate the scent of aged rum, rather than distilling directly from the spirit. Key components may include ethyl maltol, vanillin, and various lactones to mimic the complexity of real rum. These accords are designed to capture the essence of rum without the volatility of alcohol.

Usage in Perfumery

Rum is most often used as a heart or base note in gourmand, oriental, and woody compositions, lending depth and a sense of warmth. It pairs well with vanilla, tonka bean, dried fruits, spices, and woods, enhancing both sweetness and complexity. Perfumers use it to evoke a luxurious, comforting atmosphere or to add a distinctive boozy signature.