Pink berry fragrance

Pink berry X Good Perfumer

What does the word pink berry mean?

Pink peppercorns, also known as pink peppercorns, are the fruit of a shrub native to South America called Schinus molle. While not technically a peppercorn variety, they are often used as a substitute in cooking due to their slightly peppery and fruity flavor. The term "berry" comes from the Latin "baca," meaning "stone fruit." The name "pink peppercorn" refers to the fruit's color, which ranges from pale pink to bright red when ripe.

In the beginning…

Pink berries are native primarily to tropical regions of South America, including Peru, Brazil, and Argentina. Today, they are also produced in Madagascar and Reunion Island.

The history of pink peppercorns dates back to pre-Columbian times in South America. Indigenous peoples were already using them before the arrival of Europeans in the 15th century . At the time, it was common to use pink peppercorns in cooking to season dishes and drinks. In addition, these berries were also used for medicinal purposes, to relieve digestive problems and joint pain.

Over time, pink peppercorns grew in popularity and were introduced to other parts of the world through maritime travel and trade. It has become a common ingredient in international cuisine, particularly in Mediterranean and some Asian cuisines.

The cultivation of pink berries

To ensure healthy growth of pink berries, their plants are planted in sunny locations. The plants are generally spaced 1 to 2 meters apart to allow good air circulation. They must be watered regularly and the soil must be kept slightly moist.

The berries are ready to harvest when their color turns bright red. They can then be picked by hand.

The different species of pink berry

In perfumery, different species of pink berry are used to create unique scented compositions. The two most commonly used species are:

• Schinus terebinthifolius : This species, also known as "Brazilian pink berry" or "Madagascar pink berry," is widely used in perfumery. It offers spicy, fresh, and slightly peppery notes, bringing a vibrant and exotic dimension to perfumes.

• Schinus molle : Also known as the “pink berry of Peru,” this species is prized for its spicy, woody scent, with hints of pepper and resin. It adds a warm, seductive touch to perfume compositions.

What did you know about pink berries in perfumery?

The process of processing and transforming pink peppercorns into perfumery involves several steps. First, the pink peppercorns are harvested at their peak ripeness to capture their optimal aroma. Next, they undergo a steam distillation process to extract the essential oil. This essential oil is then filtered and purified to remove impurities. Perfumers then use this pink peppercorn essential oil as a key ingredient in their perfume compositions. Its spicy, fresh, and slightly peppery scent brings a distinctive and exotic touch, adding a warm and intriguing dimension to perfumes.

As such, the peppery aroma of pink peppercorns is its signature olfactory characteristic. It offers a slight sensation of warmth and spiciness, reminiscent of black pepper, but milder and more subtle. This peppery note brings a spicy and stimulating dimension to dishes, without being overwhelming. But in addition to this peppery character, the pink peppercorns reveal fruity notes reminiscent of citrus fruits, and leave a subtle floral imprint on the palate. This aftertaste is characterized by delicate accents of rose or white flowers and creates a captivating olfactory harmony.

Pink peppercorn is often combined with other ingredients to create harmonious olfactory accords in perfumery. Some commonly used accords with pink peppercorn include:

• Spicy accords : Pink peppercorn blends well with spicy notes such as cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon or cloves, creating warm and stimulating compositions.

• Floral accords : Pink berry can be combined with soft floral notes such as rose, jasmine or violet, bringing a subtle and delicate floral dimension.

• Woody accords : By combining pink berry with woody notes such as cedar, patchouli or vetiver, we obtain warm and earthy accords, balancing the liveliness of pink berry.

• Fruity accords : Pink berry also blends well with fruity notes such as orange, grapefruit or bergamot, creating fruity and refreshing accords.

Good to know!

In addition to their renowned aromatic properties, pink berries boast numerous health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, they can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and certain types of cancer. They also contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. These are very beneficial for people with arthritis or eczema, for example. Additionally, pink berries have diuretic properties that aid in the elimination of toxins and proper kidney function. Finally, they can strengthen the immune system thanks to their vitamin C content.

The legendary pink berry fragrances...

Some well-known perfumes use pink pepper as an olfactory note. These include:

• Encens Mythique d'Orient by Guerlain is a captivating eau de parfum that captures the mystical and oriental spirit of incense. It blends floral top notes with woody and spicy heart notes. The base notes are rich and opulent incense accord, creating an intense and sophisticated fragrance.

• Baie rose 26 Chicago by Le Labo . This eau de parfum releases notes of rose, pink pepper and aldehydes for a classic floral result. Its history refers to that of jazz, a musical genre deeply linked to the city of Chicago.

• The pink pepper of the Antichambre . This fragrance for men and women was launched in 2013. Pink pepper occupies a special place in it and gives it its special sweet and aromatic spicy accords.

• Pleasures by Estée Lauder is a classic and refined fragrance that evokes the joy and beauty of nature. With its delicate and fresh floral notes, such as rose , lilac and lily of the valley and its musky and woody base notes, it creates an elegant and romantic olfactory experience, perfect for lovers of feminine and timeless fragrances.

• Elle by Yves Saint Laurent is an iconic eau de parfum from the luxury house. It embodies elegance and femininity with its floral and fruity notes, creating a seductive and sophisticated fragrance that captures the bold spirit of the modern woman.

DID YOU KNOW? Pink peppercorns are traditionally used in perfumery as an olfactory "awakening" agent. In perfumery workshops, it's common to keep a vial of pink peppercorns on hand to reactivate the sense of smell when it becomes saturated or tired. Perfumers gently inhale the scent of pink peppercorns to "cleanse" their noses and regain a sharper sense of smell.