Blackcurrant is used by perfumes from either the blossom or the fruit itself. The distilled absolute of blackcurrant is known as Bourgeons de cassis. It’s a fruity, woody note that brings a roundness and depth to a fragrance. It’s a powerful note that runs through the entire olfactory pyramid so needs to be used with great skill.

It was first used by Guerlain in the perfume Chamade in 1969.