Cranberry

Cranberry is a vibrant, tart-fruity note in perfumery known for its sharp juiciness, refreshing acidity, and subtle green bitterness. Unlike sweeter red berries like raspberry or strawberry, cranberry offers a more astringent, mouthwatering character—blending sour freshness with faintly woody and floral undertones. It evokes crisp autumn air, bright ruby fruits, and the playful zing of cranberry juice. Used primarily as a top or heart note, cranberry brings energy, contrast, and a modern twist to fruity-floral, chypre, or gourmand compositions.

History & Production: Since cranberries cannot be naturally distilled for perfumery, the cranberry note is a synthetic reconstruction, built using fruity esters, aldehydes, and molecules such as damascones and ionones to replicate its tart red brightness. Some compositions may also include hints of green notes or woody nuances to mimic the fruit’s natural complexity. Popular in contemporary perfumery, cranberry is often paired with rose, lychee, woods, or musks to create fragrances that feel fresh, flirty, and slightly provocative. It adds a flash of color and crispness—perfect for compositions that seek to balance sweetness with sharp, juicy sophistication.