Molecule 03

Molecule 03 by Escentric Molecules

Molecule 03 consists of Vetiveryl Acetate, pure and singular. Vetiveryl Acetate could be described as a hybrid molecule, half-synthetic, half-natural. It is a fraction of vetiver oil distilled from the roots of an Indian grass, which is then 'crossed' with acetic and acid to remove the bitter and leathery aspects of the root.

In India, vetiver essential was an ingredient of ancient perfume and was referred to as 'the oil of tranquillity'. Vetiver is known to reduce anxiety and promote mental clarity through the comforting and venturing powers of its aura. For Molecule 03, Geza put a modernist spin on Vetiveryl Acetate, the refined vetiver note celebrated for its earthy-smokey facets and rich, enveloping nature.

Think of uncut grass on a warm day, or envisage a forest muddled with warm balsamic undertones, and you'll have an idea of what vetiver smells like. "Acetylation brings out the grapefruit touch in vetiver, giving a more pronounced bitter-fresh top note," says Geza Schoen. The result is an elegant and refined molecule with vetiver's woody, slightly grassy character, but far smoother and softer.