Blackcurrant Bud Absolute - Cassis de Bourgeons (Ribes nigrum)

Blackcurrant Bud Absolute (Cassis de Bourgeons) is a natural aromatic extract obtained by solvent extraction of dormant blackcurrant buds (Ribes nigrum), then refined into an absolute. Produced in France by Biolandes, this material belongs to the fruity-green family and is highly valued in fine perfumery for its intense, characteristic blackcurrant profile.

Its odour profile is powerfully green and fruity, with bright notes of fresh blackcurrant leaves and tart black fruit, plus a distinctive sulfurous/catty facet that gives real-life cassis authenticity. Perfumers describe it as crushed green leaves soaked in cat musk: sharp, tangy, wild and immediately recognizable.

Blackcurrant bud absolute is used as a top/heart modifier in fruity, green, citrus, floral and chypre compositions. It adds tart complexity to berry accords, strengthens green facets and provides an essential backbone to premium cassis and "black fruits" fragrances, while offering excellent tenacity (over 300 hours on a smelling strip).

Olfactory profile

• Fruity-green, tart and tangy blackcurrant
• Strong sulfurous/"catty" facet from thiols, giving realistic cassis character
• Light woody, liquor-like and balsamic nuances in the base

Perfumery use

• Top/heart modifier in fruity-green, citrus, floral, chypre and "black fruits" accords
• Adds authenticity to cassis notes and boosts green and tart facets without smelling like jammy berry syrup

Specifications

• Botanical source: Ribes nigrum L. (blackcurrant)
• INCI: RIBES NIGRUM BUD EXTRACT
• Origin: France (buds harvested in Burgundy; absolute produced by Biolandes)
• Appearance: dark green to brown viscous paste or thick liquid; often needs gentle warming or dilution for easy use

This product is a professional perfumery raw material, not a finished cosmetic. It must be dosed carefully (typically under 0.4% in finished fragrance according to IFRA guidance) due to its strength and potential for irritation, and should never be applied undiluted to the skin. Classified as environmentally hazardous; IFRA 51 and 49 typically limit its level in finished fragrance.