When we think about gourmand perfume, our minds will often default towards sweet, delicious notes like vanilla, caramel or pistachio. But gourmand in the context of fragrance actually refers to any composition that consists of predominantly 'edible' or food-adjacent notes. This can include things like basil, nuts, bread (more on that here), rice, tea and vegetables – yes, really.
If you're into the idea of smelling like food but not overly syrupy or saccharine, a savoury fragrance might be the best scented choice you can make. From rice to herbs to pumpkin, the best savoury scents according to RUSSH, below.
D.S & Durga Coriander
Just like the herb, this is divisive. It's aromatic but vibrant; a peppery mix of juniper, geranium, clove and sage. It's clean, sexy and very refreshing.
BornToStandOut Dirty Rice
The smell of rice would typically be described as clean, milky... slightly nutty, even. But this has a seductive edge to it – I'd put it down to the soapy, sexy musk base and warming sandalwood.
Vilhelm Parfumerie Basilico & Fellini
This smells like one big summer cocktail – squashed basil, zingy citrus, fig and vetiver. It's bright and optimistic but deliciously herbal.
Maison Margiela Replica From The Garden
If Call Me By Your Name had a perfume, this would be it: over-ripe tomatoes, green mandarin, patchouli, sun-warmed-skin and damp Earth. Languid summer energy in a bottle.
Jo Malone London Lime Basil & Mandarin Cologne
One of the original fresh gourmands, Lime Basil & Mandarin is clean and energising, like it's vibrating out of the bottle. It's true to real life with zesty citrus, thyme and sweet basil with just a touch of amberwood for sophisticated warmth.
Aesop Virēre
Described as drinking tea under a fig tree on a sunny afternoon (my dream), Virēre is clean, comforting and nostalgic. It feels a little bit like a slow summer holiday, with notes of mastic, maté and hay.
Dries Van Noten Camomille Satin
This has the deliciousness of a classic gourmand but the herbal dryness of chamomile and lavender. It's creamy but clean, with juxtaposing notes of leather, orange flower, Turkish rose and musk.
Armani Beauty Thé Yulong
This is incredibly clean and minimalist, with exacting notes of roasted tea leaves and citrus. Inspired by the Yulong Mountains in China, it's expansive but meditative. Perfect for those who prefer a less is more approach to perfume.
Tamburins Pumpkini
If you fantasise about smelling like a piece of warm pumpkin pie, Pumpkini is the one. There's pumpkin, coconut milk, soft sandalwood, spicy ginger and green perilla leaves that give it a delicious real world likeness.
