Sage

Sage in perfumery usually refers to Salvia officinalis (common sage) rather than the lavender-adjacent clary sage, with a herbaceous, slightly camphoraceous, distinctly green-aromatic profile. The essential oil contains thujone, the same compound that gives wormwood its bitter edge, in restricted but workable amounts under IFRA guidelines. The note functions as a top-to-heart bridge in fougeres and aromatic compositions, particularly when paired with lavender and rosemary. Nishane Nefs at Parfum Central uses sage in its herbal opening, paired with whiskey for an unexpected aromatic-boozy combination.