Benzoin is a natural aromatic resin obtained by incising the trunks of various species of the Styrax genus, cultivated mainly in Sumatra, Laos, and Vietnam. Once collected, the resin is purified and extracted with various solvents to create tinctures or resinoids, often diluted in ethanol for use in perfumery. Its balsamic, vanilla-like profile forms the backbone of iconic accords such as the Guerlinade - the olfactory signature of Guerlain’s historic fragrances, including Shalimar by Jacques Guerlain (1925), which laid the foundation for the oriental fragrance family.
Benzoin is a key ingredient in our Matcha accord. We use exclusively the Sumatra variety, selected for its balsamic density and soft depth. As with all natural ingredients in Narici fragrances, benzoin is used at a high concentration, which also influences the colour of the jus, evolving according to the resin’s naturally amber hue.
In nature, nothing is identical: every leaf, every fruit, every resin has its own unique shade, and for us at Narici this diversity becomes a value.
Every raw material we use retains its authenticity and nuances, and each fragrance becomes a faithful snapshot of its identity, with subtle colour variations depending on the harvest year. Over time, the colour may continue to evolve naturally due to normal interactions between ingredients or exposure to sunlight. This is why we recommend storing your perfume away from light, tightly closed inside your cabinet!