What does the word tobacco mean?
The word "tobacco" has an interesting etymological origin. Its roots lie in the Spanish word "tabaco," which was introduced to Europe in the 16th century following the discoveries of explorers bringing tobacco back from the Americas. Originally, the word "tabaco" is of indigenous Amerindian origin, derived from the term "tabaco" in the Taíno language, spoken by the indigenous people of the Caribbean, particularly in Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti. Today, the word "tobacco" refers to both the plant itself, cultivated for its dried leaves, and the tobacco product used in the manufacture of cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other tobacco products.
In the beginning…
Tobacco, also known as Nicotiana Tabacum, has a fascinating and ancient history dating back thousands of years. Its origins date back to the indigenous cultures of America, where it was widely cultivated and used long before the arrival of Europeans. The earliest records of tobacco use date back to around 5000 BC in the region that is now Ecuador and Peru, where indigenous peoples were already cultivating and consuming the plant.
When Christopher Columbus and the first European explorers discovered the New World in the 15th century, they were fascinated by this mysterious plant. Tobacco was quickly introduced to Europe, where its use spread rapidly. It became popular among European elites and was used in various forms, including as a smoke in pipes and as a blend in cigars.
Tobacco cultivation
Tobacco cultivation is an ancient agricultural practice that dates back thousands of years. Mainly native to Central and South America, tobacco is a plant in the nightshade family, which also includes tomatoes and potatoes.
Its development requires specific conditions to ensure proper plant growth. Tobacco prefers a warm, humid climate, as well as well-drained, nutrient-rich soils. Tobacco is often grown in tropical or subtropical climates, although some varieties can also be grown in more temperate climates.
Tobacco growing is a complex process that involves several steps, from soil preparation to harvesting and drying the leaves. Tobacco plants are usually sown in nurseries before being transplanted into fields once they reach a certain size. Tobacco leaves are harvested at different stages of maturity, depending on the tobacco's end use.
What do you know about tobacco in perfumery?
The processing and transformation of tobacco into perfumery includes drying the leaves to preserve their natural aromas, fermentation to develop the characteristic olfactory nuances, extraction to obtain the desired aromatic substances, and finally, blending with other precious ingredients to create captivating and unique fragrances. These delicate processes capture the warm, woody, and smoky notes of tobacco, adding a sophisticated and captivating touch to perfume compositions.
Tobacco, in perfumery, has a distinctive and charismatic olfactory profile . Its olfactory family is often associated with leather, giving it an elegant and captivating dimension. The olfactory notes of tobacco often evoke a warm and complex blend, with woody , spicy and smoky accords . There are deep nuances of sun-cured tobacco, scents of cigar leaves and subtle accords of tobacco smoke. Some perfumes also use extracts of fermented tobacco leaves to bring richer and more nuanced nuances. By drawing on the olfactory family of leather, tobacco becomes an essential component in the creation of intense and captivating perfumes, adding an aura of sophistication and seduction to any perfume composition.
GOOD TO KNOW!
Some tobacco varieties are naturally luminescent. For example, Virginia tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) contains genes that produce a fluorescent protein, meaning tobacco leaves can glow in the dark under ultraviolet light. This astonishing phenomenon was discovered through biotechnology and has piqued researchers' interest for its potential applications in genetic and medical research.
Some legendary tobacco flavors...
Let yourself be seduced by the elegance and power of tobacco in these fragrances that tell unique and fascinating stories on the skin! Here is our selection of fragrances that contain tobacco:
• Gucci by Gucci For Men by Gucci
Gucci by Gucci Pour Homme by Gucci is a captivating eau de toilette that embodies masculine elegance and charisma. From the very first notes, the fragrance unveils a captivating blend of fresh cypress, sweet violet, and sparkling bergamot. The heart of the fragrance is rich and intense, highlighting captivating tobacco accords and delicate jasmine, creating a seductive and sophisticated contrast.
Finally, the base notes exude an aura of seduction with earthy patchouli, velvety leather, warm amber, as well as elemi and olibanum resins that add a mysterious and refined touch. Gucci by Gucci Pour Homme eau de toilette is an olfactory symphony that reveals the irresistible charm of the modern man, asserting his presence with class and confidence.
• London for Men by Burberry
Tobacco plays a central role in Burberry's London for Men Eau de Toilette, a spicy amber eau de toilette for men. Tobacco leaf notes provide a distinctive and powerful olfactory signature to this composition. Combined with cinnamon, lavender, and bergamot in the top notes, they bring an enveloping warmth and intensity from the very beginning. In the heart, tobacco harmonizes with leather and mimosa, creating an intriguing combination of rich and complex aromatic facets. In the base notes, opoponax and oakmoss fuse with tobacco, imparting a captivating depth and sensuality that persists throughout the fragrance's evolution. Tobacco in London for Men embodies a refined and bold masculinity, reinforcing the captivating character of this iconic Burberry creation.
• The Male Elixir by Jean Paul Gaultier
In Jean Paul Gaultier's Le Male Elixir eau de parfum, tobacco plays a captivating and captivating role in this amber and fougère fragrance for men. Nose designer Quentin Bisch skillfully incorporated tobacco into the base notes of the fragrance to give it a sensual and profound dimension. Combined with honey and tonka bean, tobacco brings a suave and enveloping warmth to the composition, creating a seductive and intoxicating aura. The top notes of lavender and mint bring a dynamic, herbaceous freshness that harmoniously balances the sweet and gourmand nuances of tobacco, vanilla, and benzoin in the heart. Tobacco is subtly used here to give Le Male Elixir eau de parfum an intoxicating and seductive touch, making this fragrance a true olfactory signature for bold and charismatic men.
• Noble Leather by Yves Saint Laurent
Part of the Oriental Collection, this fragrance evokes the sensuality and mystery of the Orient. Top notes of mandarin, violet leaves, and saffron introduce a spicy and luminous touch, while the heart blends leather with accords of dried fruits and tobacco, creating a captivating depth. The lingering trail is characterized by notes of patchouli and vanilla. The sleek bottle is inspired by the atmosphere of an oriental palace, adding a visual dimension to this olfactory experience. Available in limited retail outlets, Noble Leather embodies the sensual charm of the Orient in a sophisticated Yves Saint Laurent fragrance.
Tobacco X Good Perfumer
Bon Parfumeur's tobacco fragrances are an excellent option for those looking for an eco-friendly and ethical alternative to perfumery products.
• Eau de Parfum 902 Armagnac, Tabac blond, Cinnamon is a captivating creation launched in 2017, with Karine Dubreuil-Sereni as the nose behind this composition.
From the top notes, we are transported to a refined universe where cognac, orange, ginger, and basil blend to create an intoxicating and stimulating opening. The heart of this fragrance reveals a warm blend of cinnamon, plum, clove, and geranium, evoking spicy and fruity notes of great elegance. Finally, the base notes deliver a captivating aura with accords of tobacco, vanilla, patchouli, and cistus, bringing a sensual and woody touch to the whole.
• Bon Parfumeur 's 2019 Vodka, Tabac, Genièvre Eau de Parfum is a bold creation that subtly blends intoxicating and fresh accords, launched in 2019 with Karine Dubreuil-Sereni as the nose behind this composition. From the top notes, we are intrigued by a stimulating blend of vodka, mint, bitter orange and basil, creating a refreshing and invigorating start. The heart of this fragrance reveals a spicy and intoxicating blend of juniper berries, cinnamon, pink pepper and frosted melon, bringing a captivating and energizing dimension to the whole. Finally, the base notes bring a warm depth with accords of vetiver, tobacco and patchouli, giving a sensual and woody touch to the fragrance.
