Birch

Birch is a tree of the Betulaceae family. Also called “white birch” or “paper birch,” birch is a pioneer species that quickly occupies devastated areas. In Europe, birch has been called “the tree of wisdom.” Birches have very characteristic bark that resembles paper. Birches are found mainly in Northern Europe and Asia. Yellow in autumn, birch also takes on red, orange and brown colors. Birch essence is obtained by dry steam distillation of the bark.

Birch, a beautiful leathery facet

In perfumery, birch bark is used to bring a leather note to masculine fragrances. Birch gives off warm, acrid, smoky, tarry and above all leathery odors. Birch gives the olfactory impression of a wood fire. Perfumes that contain birch essence produce distinctive fragrances with character. Among the great perfumes, Cuir de Russie, created by Chanel in the 1920s, is a legendary perfume that enjoyed massive success. Here the top notes are mainly citrus, giving a fresh and dynamic impression. In the heart notes, one finds vanilla, fougère and cedar. Smoky leather then comes in as a base note, bringing its power and virile side. The result is a very chic and distinctive perfume, though it no longer enjoys as much success among men today, who now prefer more marine, fresh and modern fragrances.

Birch and its best combinations

Make no mistake, birch does not pair with just any olfactory family or facet. Its best accords are with woody notes and fougères, and some chypres. One of the great perfumes to have achieved this perfect combination is Gentlemen Only by Givenchy. Birch appears as a top note alongside mandarin, with heart notes of patchouli, a leather accord and cedarwood. As for the base notes, tonka bean and amber take their place. This perfume is aimed at charming, carefree men... a charming, slightly seductive perfume... Another highly successful perfume is Habit Rouge by Guerlain. Birch appears in the base alongside ambergris, labdanum, cedar and patchouli. In the heart notes, one finds jasmine and rose. In the top notes, lemon is paired with lavender, orange and neroli. Here, Jean-Paul Guerlain dared to use birch with a more oriental note. The combination is very surprising, but very masculine. A real success for the perfumer Guerlain.

Birch essence was introduced into perfumery for its leathery side. With a particularly atypical odor, birch has managed to stand out. Its distinctive character quickly brought it great success. However, birch is difficult to pair with all fragrances. It blends very well with woody notes, fougères and chypres. Perfumes containing birch are mainly masculine, though there are a few that also suit women very well.