Instinct

Instinct by the French house Ggema, released in 2023 and composed by Guillaume Flavigny, is a bright citrus scent with a soft rose heart. Everyone who describes it calls it citrusy; about two thirds also find it floral, and a minority notice spicy, gourmand or woody sides.

Mandarin, bergamot and lemon give a sunny, zesty opening, and cardamom adds a cool, slightly green spice. Rose and rose oil fill the heart, fresh and a little dewy rather than jammy, with carrot seed adding an earthy, slightly powdery twist that gives the scent character. Sandalwood and amyris bring a creamy, soft wood to the base, and vanilla adds a gentle sweetness without tipping it into dessert.

Instinct is worn by anyone. Its citrus-rose brightness suits daytime wear in spring and summer, and it reads as a clean, cheerful scent for the office or a weekend. It suits someone who likes rose but prefers it light and fresh.

Instinct — unisex fragrance by Ggema (released 2023). Notes: Amyris, Bergamot, Cardamom, Carrot Seeds, Lemon, Mandarin Orange, Rose, Rose Oil, Sandalwood, Vanilla. — Parfica open fragrance database