The Fragrances of the World classification is recognised globally as the leading authority in fragrance categorisation. Developed in 1992 by Michael Edwards, the fragrance wheel maps the natural connections between scent families and personal preferences. It has been described as the world’s only comprehensive, historically accurate and artistically consistent guide to fragrance.
At its heart, the wheel defines four primary families: Ambery, Woody, Fresh, and Floral. Within each family are 14 sub-groups, each shaped by the dominant notes that give a fragrance its identity. A scent family brings together aromas that share similarities, contrast beautifully, or complement one another.
At Saint Cobes, each parfum has been carefully crafted to represent one of these four main families:
Most people naturally gravitate towards one or two families when choosing a scent, so your instinct is often the best guide. Think about the fragrances you’re usually drawn to, and explore their presence in the parfum notes.
How Fragrance Notes Work
Every parfum is built in layers of top, heart, and base notes.
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Top notes: the first impression, bright and immediate.
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Heart notes: the defining character that emerges once the top notes fade.
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Base notes: the foundation, adding depth, warmth, and the lasting trail on the skin.
Together, these layers create a complex, evolving fragrance experience that unfolds over time.
Fragrance Families & Sub-Groups
Here is a guide to the key sub-families and the notes that often define them. Many fragrances combine elements across families, so it’s always worth looking at the full blend rather than relying only on the dominant family.
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Floral: fresh-cut flowers
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Soft Floral: aldehydes & powdery notes
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Floral Amber: orange blossom & spices
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Soft Amber: incense & amber
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Amber: ambery resins
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Woody Amber: sandalwood & patchouli
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Woods Main: aromatic woods & vetiver
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Mossy Woods: oakmoss & amber
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Dry Woods: dry woods & leather
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Aromatic: lavender & aromatic herbs
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Citrus: bergamot & citrus oils
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Water: marine & aquatic notes
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Green: galbanum & herbal notes
- Fruity: berries & non-citrus fruits
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