At our small British perfumery way out here on the edge of West Wales we are so lucky to have our own rather extensive library of beautifully fragrant oils.
I can never resist adding to my collection and am always on the lookout for unusual or particularly arresting essential oils: whether it is one of my own, from a trusted supplier or picked up on a trip away.
I prize them not only for their use in perfumery but also savour them on their own merit. How they make you feel, where they take you as you inhale, what you can learn from their growing conditions.
Like fine wine these oils are kept in a cool place in dark glass bottles and every once in a while, opened and explored, recording how they age.
Collector’s items that make scents.