It’s all About the Base

The essential component of a fragrance’s base note is its ability to last. These notes are known as fixatives, they literally fix the scent to your skin. The ingredients used are heavier and slower to evaporate, hence the lingering quality.

STORIES Nº. 02 has a sensual blend of base notes underpinning its composition. Opoponax, Musk, Sandalwood, Amber and Vanilla work together to ensure that the wearer will not easily forget this alluring fragrance.

Opoponax is obtained from an inauspicious, thorny bush in Somalia. The bark is tapped for its resin which is then left to macerate in order to produce a resinoid. The resinoid is steam distilled to yield its essential oil. This lengthy process produces a light, honeyed aroma with a slightly green, leafy edge. It is the thread that binds the other base notes together so beautifully.

Vanilla is processed in a similar way to Opoponax. After allowing the pods to dry on the vine, a tincture is produced by soaking the pods in alcohol. The pods are then dried and a white compound, called vanillin, appears. The finest grade of Vanilla undergoes 18 months of treatment before it is used in perfumery. It is worth waiting for, however, for its warm, balsamic scent that will accompany you long into the night.

One of the most important back notes in perfumery is Musk. It is what remains after the more lively, floral or spiced upper notes have evaporated. It also brings balance to the more dynamic tones and adds its own unique warmth to the fragrance.

Amber and Sandalwood contribute unique softness to the Oriental harmonies. They serve to balance the sweetness of Opoponax, the animalistic draw of Musk and the sensuality of Vanilla. When expertly blended these five base notes leave the wearer with no opportunity to deny the power of STORIES Nº. 02.