Copala by Xinú

Undoubtedly my favourite fragrance in the collection. It defines me, my personality… something very mystical and unique, you won’t find it in any other perfume… a 10/10 for me… it’s more of an autumn scent, not for summer or spring, but wow, it’s a delight. I’ve received several compliments thanks to it.

Copal is a resin that since pre-Columbian times, and probably prehistoric times, was used in rituals and attributed esoteric or magical properties by the peoples who used it, who were the foundations of the oldest civilisations that left their mark on what is now Mexico. Today, crystals of this resin are sold in esoteric shops and burned in incense burners to purify the environment and energy, and even to cut off or ward off bad energies. Like myrrh and frankincense in the Middle East or the balsams of Tolu and Peru in South America, copal is linked to pre-Hispanic civilisations and, in general, the use of resins by ancient civilisations worldwide (in fact, the word ‘perfume’ comes from ‘Perf-umum’, equivalent to burning something to obtain aroma, these early incenses being resins, woods such as sandalwood and palo santo) and is linked to communication with the beyond and the divine; in the case of the ancient Mexicans, with the inhabitants of Mictlán and the plethora of gods they believed in. The crystals, without being burned (melted), have an aroma whose most congruent description is ‘sweet corn with vanilla’ or ‘sweet corn’; when placed in the incense burner, they emit a smell similar to fresh pine sap or some conifer. In perfumery I have perceived copal essential oil with two distinct nuances: one with that sweet corn aroma and another, more balsamic, with a nuance similar to vetiver, strongly resinous, balsamic and woody (but without earthy tones). In my perfume house I used copal as a base to create my leather and amber accords, with excellent results. As for the Xinu perfume: a true Mexican niche. I would dare to say, the introduction of copal to the rest of the world in perfumery. A highly recommended olfactory work that I suggest you try to perceive this such characteristic and deeply rooted note, so important for the cultural identity of Mexico.