Gourmand

Vanillin

Note Profile

Molecule 25 perfumes

About

Synthetic vanilla molecule

Scent Profile

Vanillin has a sweet, creamy, and distinctly vanilla aroma with subtle powdery and woody undertones. Its scent is warm and comforting, evolving from a pronounced sugary note to a soft, lingering sweetness. The molecule is highly diffusive and easily recognizable, often evoking the scent of baked goods.

ScentWheel

Breadthfocused

EnvelopeBase · ~36h lasting

Family Sweet & Gourmand, Floral

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

What this is made of

vanillin

Names this molecule

CAS 121-33-5

The note name IS the molecule. Distinct from the `vanilla` note, which is the pod.

Declarable allergen: Named in EU Annex III as Vanillin products must list this name above a set concentration

These are facts about the substance, not about any perfume with this note.

Why that matters

A perfume that names Vanillin can use a different extract, a reformulated version, or a synthetic reconstruction. It can also hold less than the amount that requires a declaration. We cannot tell which applies. These rows cover only the substances we hold a link for.

How the layers join

Origin

Vanillin is primarily synthesized from guaiacol or lignin, both byproducts of the wood pulp and petrochemical industries. While it is the main aromatic compound in natural vanilla beans, most vanillin used in perfumery is produced synthetically for consistency and cost-effectiveness.

Usage in Perfumery

Perfumers use vanillin mainly in the heart and base of gourmand, oriental, and floral compositions to impart warmth and sweetness. It blends well with notes like tonka bean, benzoin, sandalwood, and florals, and is often used to round out and soften harsher ingredients.