Vanilla is a flavouring derived from the pods of tropical orchids. It comes from the vanilla orchid, primarily from the Vanilla planifolia species. It’s native to Mexico and was first cultivated by the Totonac people. Then, vanilla was used in sacred rituals and as a tribute to the gods, demonstrating its early appreciation as a luxury ingredient. Today, it is primarily grown in regions like Madagascar, Mexico, and Tahiti, and remains a highly-prized raw material due to its rich, complex flavour and labour-intensive cultivation process.

While it has been celebrated for centuries across many cultures, vanilla first made its mark in modern perfumery in 1889 when it featured in Guerlain’s iconic creation, Jicky. The fragrance was notable for a number of reasons. Chiefly, it was considered the first unisex fragrance. First aimed at men, then marketed to women, it became known for its brave, bold positioning as an ambiguous scent.

Jicky was also celebrated for its complexity, which owed largely to the inclusion of synthetic vanillin. Vanillin was cheaper, sweeter and creamier than the natural vanilla essences of the time, and was far more potent and cost-effective. It marked the first use of the designer ingredient and paved the way for a new era in perfumery.

Vanilla blends well with a wide range of flavours and aromas. In perfumery, it adds warmth, sweetness, and depth to floral, amber, and gourmand fragrances. While perfumers often use it to evoke comfort, sensuality, and sophistication, vanilla wears many hats, and is as comfortable playing second fiddle as it is being the star of the show. As our picks highlight, vanilla, from appellation to extraction process, is a surprisingly broad church.

Amore Caffe by Mancera is a luscious, ultra-gourmand delight. Imagine the perfect affogato, swirled with creamy vanilla at both the heart and base — as delicious as it is utterly irresistible. This is a bold and beautiful amber fragrance, packed with yummy notes that captures the go-big-or-go-home spirit of holiday indulgence.

Vanilla Powder is deliciously gourmand, with a powerful twist. The star? Vanilla Absolu. Vanilla Absolu is a concentrated form of vanilla used in high-end perfumes. It is highly prized for its rich, intoxicating scent and is more complex and powerful than vanilla extract or synthetic vanillin. Here, Matiere Premiere's latest masterpiece is a place where refined vanilla meets bright, modern powders. A ticket to heaven with a devilish touch.