This material is one of the most widely used natural fixatives but care must be taken not to over-fix or the perfume can become flat and dull. The product offered here is made pourable by the addition of 50% DPG and comes from one of the most respected producers of natural perfumery materials Albert Vieille. This is their Benzoin Resinoid Dark product and is exceptionally rich, sweet and beautiful with a scent reminiscent of cream liqueur.
Arctander has quite a bit to say about benzoin: “Benzoin Resinoid is used very extensively in perfumery, particularly in soap perfumes (see above on discoloration) where its fixative effect is much appreciated. It is generally applicable, but it has a pronounced odor-depressing effect upon the perfumes in which it is incorporated. This effect is closely connected with the fixative effect, and it is enhanced by the rich sweetness and deep balsamic notes from the resinoid.”