Tarragon

Tarragon is an herbaceous, perennial, semi-evergreen plant. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, the same as absinthe or mugwort. Tarragon is sometimes called “bitter mugwort”. Its Latin name Dracunculus means “little dragon”. According to legend, tarragon was reputed to treat snake bites. Tarragon originates from Russia and Central Asia. The plant measures between 30 and 80 cm in height and its leaves are long and slender. Originally used for its medicinal properties, tarragon is now an integral part of our cuisine and one of our favorite herbs. In perfumery, the leaves, stems and flowers are steam-distilled.

Tarragon, a multifaceted aromatic note

Tarragon belongs to the “aromatic” olfactory family, the same as lavender or rosemary. Tarragon is mostly found as a top note and in masculine fragrances, as it releases herbaceous aromatic scents. However, tarragon also has other facets, slightly peppery and bitter notes. It even gives off a sweet smell reminiscent of fennel, anise or licorice. Its aromas are fresh and powerful. As is the case here, in the fragrance Dolce & Gabanna Classique by Dolce & Gabanna. In this aromatic fragrance, tarragon sits as a top note. With citrus notes, it plunges into a vivid freshness. The base of the fragrance is woody, with a beautiful blend of tonka bean, sandalwood, tobacco and cedar. Dolce & Gabanna is a very masculine fragrance, yet distinguished. Tarragon is quite naturally found in many masculine aromatic fragrances such as Patou pour Homme by Jean Patou, Aqua by Azzaro, or Quartz pour Homme by Molyneux.

Tarragon and the other olfactory families

Like its family, tarragon comes in several facets, such as aromatic-aquatic with marine notes, aromatic-floral with floral notes, or aromatic-fresh with citrus notes. However, tarragon is also found in unexpected compositions, as in the fragrance L’heure Bleue by Guerlain, an oriental feminine fragrance. Tarragon as a top note is paired with orange blossom, rose, clove, and vanilla in the base note. L’heure Bleue is a great sensual classic with oriental accents. Another surprising composition is that of the fragrance Samsara by Guerlain. Another feminine fragrance, a woody oriental where tarragon meets a beautiful floral bouquet (jasmine, iris, ylang-ylang, rose) and finishes on very woody notes with sandalwood. This fragrance is a true journey to the gates of the Orient, whose ultimate stage is nirvana… Another fragrance where one would not expect to find tarragon is Sous le vent by Guerlain… Another feminine, as it turns out!

An herbaceous aromatic plant, tarragon is known for its culinary properties. Like its olfactory family, tarragon is mostly found in aromatic fragrances for men. Thanks to its many facets, however, tarragon is also found in oriental, woody, and citrus fragrances, and especially in fragrances for women!