Oak absolute (CAS 97676-30-7) — Woody Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Oak absolute
CAS 97676-30-7
What Is Oak absolute?
Oak absolute is a luxurious fragrance material extracted from oak wood, often encountered in high-end perfumes and masculine colognes. It’s prized for its rich, woody aroma with leathery undertones. This ingredient matters because it adds depth and sophistication to fragrances, evoking images of aged whiskey barrels, antique libraries, and dense forests. Its complex scent profile makes it a favorite for creating timeless, elegant compositions.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does Oak absolute Smell Like?
Oak absolute unfolds with an initial burst of deep, woody warmth – imagine the first inhalation in a centuries-old library with leather-bound books. The heart reveals a complex interplay of smoky vanillic nuances and subtle phenolic accents reminiscent of fine cognac aging in barrels. As it dries down, it leaves a lingering trail of resinous, slightly animalic undertones that add remarkable tenacity. The overall impression is of weathered wood polished by time, with a faint whisper of dried fruits and tobacco in the background.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used for its leathery depth, complementing the gasoline accord with rugged oak wood character that evolves into a sophisticated drydown.
The oak absolute amplifies the suede-like quality while adding woody structure to the raspberry and saffron notes.
Showcases oak’s full spectrum from fresh-cut timber to aged barrel notes, creating a photorealistic woody soliflore.
The oak absolute contributes to the legendary leather accord, adding polished wood facets to this historic masculine.
Oak absolute bridges the gap between the oud and modern woody notes, adding barrel-aged sophistication.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Oak absolute is obtained through solvent extraction of Quercus robur or related species, yielding a complex mixture of lignin derivatives, phenolic compounds, and terpenoids. The key odorants include whiskey lactone (oak lactone), eugenol, and vanillin derivatives formed during wood aging. Modern production may involve controlled pyrolysis to enhance smoky characteristics. The absolute typically contains high molecular weight compounds that contribute to its exceptional longevity in fragrances.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Dark viscous liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol, fixed oils |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Adds woody depth and leathery facets |
| Home Fragrance | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Use sparingly for fireplace/smoky effects |
| Men’s Grooming | 0.2-1% | Up to 3% | Pairs well with fougère structures |
| Luxury Candles | 0.05-0.3% | Up to 0.5% | Creates sophisticated woody base notes |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use oak absolute to ‘age’ compositions by adding 0.1% to woody bases for instant sophistication.
Alternatives & Comparisons
For more medicinal, smoky wood notes when a less sweet alternative is needed. Particularly effective in leather accords.
Provides similar woodiness with enhanced diffusion when more projection is required in modern compositions.
For synthetic leather effects when budget constraints limit use of natural oak absolute.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
IFRA 51: Restricted to 0.1% in leave-on products due to potential sensitization. No restrictions for rinse-off.
EU Allergen Declaration
Contains eugenol which requires declaration above 0.01% in leave-on, 0.1% in rinse-off products.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM assessment confirms safe use at current IFRA limits. Contains naturally occurring allergens requiring proper labeling.
Sustainability
Oak absolute is typically sourced from managed forests in Europe, with increasing interest in sustainable extraction methods. The production is relatively low-impact as it utilizes byproducts from timber industries. However, the solvent extraction process requires careful waste management. Some perfumers are exploring CO2 extraction as a greener alternative, though traditional methods currently dominate the market.
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References
- Baldovini et al. (2011). Identification of aroma-active compounds in oak wood. Flavour and Fragrance Journal. DOI:10.1002/ffj.2041
- IFRA Standards Library – Amendment 51 IFRA Website
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 97676-30-7Physical data: PubChem (NIH/NLM), U.S. EPA CompTox Dashboard, EPA OPERA models, RDKit. Odor & flavor: Arctander (Perfume & Flavor Chemicals), Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients, Leffingwell. Thresholds: van Gemert (Compilations of Odour Threshold Values). Regulatory: IFRA Standards 51st, FEMA GRAS. Trade names: Surburg (Common Fragrance & Flavor Materials). All data compiled and cross-referenced for perfumertools.com.
