The highest honor in the invisible art
OUR ANNUAL AWARDS
The ScentXplore Award honors the brands, perfumers, and voices that define excellence in niche perfumery. Independent. International. Chosen by the community.
Hall of Honour
| Brand Concept & Portfolio |
| Brand Ethos & Approachability |
| Fragrance of the Year |
| Rising Star Perfumer |
| Up-and-Coming Niche Brand |
| Best Storytelling |
| Heritage Composition House |
| Retailer / Distributor of the Year |
| Digital Voice of the Year |
| Outstanding Written Contribution |
| Lifetime Achievement |
| Amouage |
| Commodity |
| Decision — Amouage |
| Quentin Hernandez |
| Snif |
| Amouage |
| Givaudan |
| Scent Bar |
| Steven Gavrielatos — Redolessence |
| Suzy Nightingale |
| Sergio Momo — Xerjoff |
| Brand Concept & Portfolio |
| Brand Ethos & Approachability |
| Fragrance of the Year |
| Rising Star Perfumer |
| Up-and-Coming Niche Brand |
| Brand’s Début Fragrance |
| Retailer / Distributor |
| Most Impactful Content Creator — Writing |
| Most Impactful Content Creator — Vlogging |
| Lifetime Achievement |
| Amouage |
| Amouage |
| Sun-gria — Lorenzo Pazzaglia |
| Lorenzo Pazzaglia |
| Day Three |
| La Tacita de Café — Day Three |
| Maxaroma |
| Fragrantica |
| Felix — Mr. Felix |
| Sophia Grojsman |
| Brand Concept & Portfolio |
| Brand Approachability |
| Fragrance of the Year |
| Rising Star Perfumer |
| Up-and-Coming Niche Brand |
| Distributor / Retailer |
| Most Impactful Content Creator — Writing |
| Most Impactful Content Creator — Vlogging |
| Lifetime Achievement |
| Amouage |
| Mancera |
| Althair — Parfums de Marly |
| Sofia Bardelli — Electimuss |
| Navitus Parfums |
| MaxAroma |
| Fragrantica |
| Andres Perfume Man |
| Dominique Roques |
| Sustainability |
| Brand Concept & Portfolio |
| Brand Approachability |
| Fragrance of the Year |
| Rising Star Perfumer |
| Most Impactful Content Creator |
| Lifetime Achievement |
| Amouage |
| Amouage |
| Parfums de Marly |
| Opus XIV Royal Tobacco — Amouage |
| Aaron Terence Hughes |
| Sebastian Jara — The Perfume Guy |
| Michael Edwards |
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Brand Concept & Portfolio | Amouage |
| Brand Ethos & Approachability | Commodity |
| Fragrance of the Year | Decision — Amouage |
| Rising Star Perfumer | Quentin Hernandez |
| Up-and-Coming Niche Brand | Snif |
| Best Storytelling | Amouage |
| Heritage Composition House | Givaudan |
| Retailer / Distributor of the Year | Scent Bar |
| Digital Voice of the Year | Steven Gavrielatos — Redolessence |
| Outstanding Written Contribution | Suzy Nightingale |
| Lifetime Achievement | Sergio Momo — Xerjoff |
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Brand Concept & Portfolio | Amouage |
| Brand Ethos & Approachability | Amouage |
| Fragrance of the Year | Sun-gria — Lorenzo Pazzaglia |
| Rising Star Perfumer | Lorenzo Pazzaglia |
| Up-and-Coming Niche Brand | Day Three |
| Brand’s Début Fragrance | La Tacita de Café — Day Three |
| Retailer / Distributor | Maxaroma |
| Most Impactful Content Creator — Writing | Fragrantica |
| Most Impactful Content Creator — Vlogging | Felix — Mr. Felix |
| Lifetime Achievement | Sophia Grojsman |
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Brand Concept & Portfolio | Amouage |
| Brand Approachability | Mancera |
| Fragrance of the Year | Althair — Parfums de Marly |
| Rising Star Perfumer | Sofia Bardelli — Electimuss |
| Up-and-Coming Niche Brand | Navitus Parfums |
| Distributor / Retailer | MaxAroma |
| Most Impactful Content Creator — Writing | Fragrantica |
| Most Impactful Content Creator — Vlogging | Andres Perfume Man |
| Lifetime Achievement | Dominique Roques |
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Sustainability | Amouage |
| Brand Concept & Portfolio | Amouage |
| Brand Approachability | Parfums de Marly |
| Fragrance of the Year | Opus XIV Royal Tobacco — Amouage |
| Rising Star Perfumer | Aaron Terence Hughes |
| Most Impactful Content Creator | Sebastian Jara — The Perfume Guy |
| Lifetime Achievement | Michael Edwards |
Born in Paris and raised within the Guerlain family, four generations of perfumers founded in 1828, Patricia de Nicolaï was immersed in the art of fragrance from childhood. Determined to forge her own path, she studied chemistry before training at ISIPCA in Versailles, then refined her craft at Florasynth (1982 to 1984) and Quest International (1984 to 1989).
In 1988, she became the first woman to receive the International Prize for Best Perfumer from the French Society of Perfumers (SFP). The following year, she co-founded NICOLAÏ Parfumeur-Créateur with her husband, Jean-Louis Michau, becoming the first formally trained female perfumer in the world to establish her own house. Often likened to what Coco Chanel was to fashion, she helped define independent perfumery at a time when the niche movement was still in its infancy.
Patricia remains involved in every stage of creation, from raw material selection to composition. Her elegant, distinctly Parisian style embodies the tradition of haute parfumerie and is now represented in more than 80 countries.
Beyond her own house, she served as President of the Osmothèque, the international perfume archive, from 2008 to 2022, and contributes to the SFP’s technical committee on olfactory classification. In 2008, she became the first female perfumer named Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur, presented by Nicolas Sarkozy. In 2025, she received the ISPC Lifetime Achievement Award, supported by Thierry Wasser and Francis Kurkdjian.
A pioneer and enduring icon, Patricia de Nicolaï’s vision and independence continue to shape modern perfumery.
With our discretionary Lifetime Achievement Award, ScentXplore honors individuals whose contributions have shaped perfumery’s past, present, and future — celebrating their enduring legacy and dedication to the art and science of fragrance.
This year, that honor goes to Sergio Momo, creative director and co-founder of Xerjoff, the Italian house he established in 2007. A visionary storyteller, Momo approaches every fragrance as a narrative — one that transcends scent to evoke emotion, memory, and imagination. Across more than 180 compositions, he has built a world of thematic collections, each with its own distinct aesthetic: the lifestyle-driven Join the Club, the celestial Shooting Stars, the romantically historical Casamorati, and the contemporary energy of Vibe.
His influence extends beyond his creations. Sergio Momo has helped redefine how niche perfumery is perceived globally — as a realm of authenticity, luxury, and creative integrity — and continues to inspire a new generation of perfumers and brand founders.
For his pioneering spirit and enduring contribution to the art of fragrance, ScentXplore proudly honors Sergio Momo with the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award.
Born in Belarus with a love for florals, Sophia Grojsman studied chemistry in Poland before immigrating to the U.S. in 1965. She joined IFF as a lab assistant and, under the mentorship of Josephine Catapano and Ernest Shiftan, went on to revolutionize modern perfumery.
Sophia redefined fragrance structure by making base notes perceptible from the first breath, creating compositions that were both long-lasting and deeply diffusive. Her signature “hug me” accord — Hedione, Methyl Ionone, Iso E Super, and Galaxolide — became a cornerstone of contemporary perfumery. Known as the Queen of Roses, her lush floral style shaped some of the most iconic fragrances of the 1980s: Paris by YSL, Trésor by Lancôme, Eternity by Calvin Klein, and Beautiful by Estée Lauder.
Beyond her creations, Sophia mentored a generation of future talents — among them Annick Ménardo, Honorine Blanc, and Anne Flipo — championing women in perfumery and leaving a legacy as generous as her work.
ScentXplore humbly acknowledges Sophia Grojsman’s contribution to the perfume universe with our Lifetime Achievement Award.
Known as the cueilleur d’essences — the collector of essences — Dominique Roques has spent more than three decades sourcing the precious raw materials that the perfume industry depends on.
From vanilla in Madagascar and tonka bean in Venezuela to benzoin in Laos and frankincense in Somaliland, he travels relentlessly, studying not just the ingredients but the communities behind them. His work bridges geography, history, and culture, illuminating everything that moves through the fragrance chain from source to formula. A world-renowned authority with a deeply human perspective, Roques is equally committed to sustainable extraction and to improving the labor conditions of collectors living in precarious and often dangerous circumstances. For niche perfumery in particular, his knowledge is indispensable.
ScentXplore humbly acknowledges Dominique Roques’s contribution to the perfume universe with our Life Achievement Award.
Historian and editor Michael Edwards is the fragrance expert’s expert — a walking encyclopedia who has witnessed the industry grow from 30 new releases a year to over 3,000.
In 1983, he pioneered the classification of fragrances, creating a common language to help navigate one of the most mysterious and expansive universes in the world of scent. His Fragrance Wheel, comprising 14 families, became an industry standard. His Fragrances of the World catalog — continuously updated, covering 40,000 fragrances — remains the primary reference for perfumers, executives, specialists, and content creators worldwide. Four decades of impartial, independent work have made him not just an authority, but a foundation the entire industry stands on.
ScentXplore humbly acknowledges Michael Edwards’s contribution to the perfume universe with our Life Achievement Award.
RECOGNITION STARTS HERE
FIRST PHASE:
NOMINATION
Brand category nominees are exclusive to houses exhibiting at ScentXplore. Perfumer and individual category nominees are open to talent worldwide. Retail category nominees are drawn from US-based businesses, all honored by a community built on discernment.
Oct 14–23, 2026
For questions, contact: awards@scentxplore.com
SECOND PHASE:
JURY & SELECTION
An independent jury of leading voices in niche perfumery votes alongside the ScentXplore community of attendees past and present. Together, they select five finalists per category, then return to cast the final vote, with both voices carrying equal weight at every stage.
Oct 26 – Nov 2, 2026
Announced annually.
No brand affiliations.
THIRD PHASE: THE CEREMONY
One evening. One stage. The closing night of the 8th Edition on November 7, 2026 is where excellence is named.
The award night
2026 CATEGORIES
Honoring a niche fragrance brand whose enduring legacy is defined by a distinctive olfactory vision — building a strong identity, collaborating with outstanding perfumers, and creating compositions that have shaped the landscape of contemporary perfumery. Through decades of dedication to artistry and quality, these brands continue to inspire both enthusiasts and the broader industry.
Criteria: Open to all brands participating in ScentXplore 2026 with over 25 years of uninterrupted perfume-making history.
Honoring a brand that embodies niche perfumery through creativity, identity, and genuine connection with its audience. Prioritizing artistic vision over trends, these houses draw inspiration from art, history, and nature — building cohesive portfolios with a strong, consistent creative direction. Their ethos goes beyond the bottle, rooted in craftsmanship, authenticity, and values that resonate with the community they serve.
Criteria: Open to all brands participating in ScentXplore 2026. Brands competing in the Living Legacy category are not eligible.
Honoring an emerging perfumer whose creativity reflects the evolution of modern perfumery. With greater freedom than in the past, today's rising talents often follow bold, concept-driven paths. Their ability to push boundaries while honoring craft signals a promising future and a new generation of olfactory artists shaping the niche landscape.
Criteria: Emerging perfumers who have demonstrated outstanding talent, artistry, and consistency in niche perfumery for between 3 and 7 years. Previous winners of this category are not eligible.
This award honors a young brand making its mark on niche perfumery through creativity, originality, and an uncompromising commitment to craft. Still early in their journey, these houses bring fresh perspectives and bold vision to an industry that thrives on new voices. Their passion for craftsmanship and innovation drives the continued evolution of niche perfumery.
Criteria: Open to all brands participating in ScentXplore 2026 with up to 5 years of existence. Previous winners of this category are not eligible.
Honoring a specific and distinctive ingredient, note or accord introduced this year by a niche fragrance brand. Whether through unexpected contrasts, novel extraction techniques, or inventive composition, it recognizes a creative interpretation that transforms familiar materials into something entirely its own — pushing the boundaries of what an ingredient, single note or accord can achieve.
Criteria: Open to all brands participating in ScentXplore 2026.
Honoring excellence in bottle design and the overall packaging experience. From the flacon's form, materials, and tactile quality to the visual identity and presentation, this award celebrates creations that extend the fragrance's narrative into a complete sensory and aesthetic experience — where the object itself becomes part of the art.
Criteria: Open to all brands participating in ScentXplore 2026.
Honoring the retailers who bring niche perfumery to life. Through vision, expertise, and a willingness to champion emerging and independent brands, they invest in curated experiences, knowledgeable staff, and the kind of discovery that cannot happen online. Their role is essential to expanding access, nurturing talent, and shaping the future of the niche fragrance industry.
Criteria: U.S.-based retailers offering fine fragrances, nominated by ScentXplore. Previous winners observe a one-year pause before becoming eligible again.
Honoring outstanding digital presence and influence in the fragrance world. This award recognizes an individual whose content brings perfumery to life online — expanding the conversation, building awareness, and deepening appreciation for the art of scent through creativity and authentic engagement.
Criteria: Open to content creators with at least 12 months of consistent digital presence in niche perfumery. Previous winners observe a one-year pause before becoming eligible again.
Honoring excellence in written content that deepens our appreciation of fragrance. This award recognizes an individual whose work demonstrates insight, originality, and dedication to the craft — blending education with creativity to produce content that truly enriches the fragrance community.
Criteria: Nominees are curated by ScentXplore from individuals who have produced outstanding written content related to perfumery in 2026. Previous winners observe a one-year pause before becoming eligible again.
Honoring a fragrance that moves as much as it performs. Niche consumers seek originality, complexity, and evolution — and this award recognizes a creation that delivers all three. Beyond longevity and wearability, it celebrates the balance of technical excellence, emotional depth, and sensory storytelling that defines a truly exceptional fragrance.
To better reflect the diversity and momentum within niche perfumery, this category has been divided into three distinct awards: Legacy (over 25 years of uninterrupted perfume-making history), Contemporary (5-25 years) and Up-and-coming (up to 5 years).
Criteria: Open to fragrances released between January 1st and October 1st, 2026 by ScentXplore participating brands.
Honoring an individual whose life's work has left an indelible mark on niche perfumery — through vision, creativity, and an unwavering dedication to the craft that has inspired generations.
A tribute to a career devoted to the art of fragrance, and to the enduring influence of a singular creative voice.
EXPERIENCE FOR YOURSELF
8th Edition · November 5–7, 2026 · New York City
Brand Concept & Portfolio
Brand Ethos & Approachability
Fragrance of the Year
Rising Star Perfumer
Up-and-Coming Niche Brand
Best Storytelling
Heritage Composition House
Retailer / Distributor
Digital Voice of the Year
Outstanding Written Contribution
Brand Concept & Portfolio
Brand Ethos & Approachability
Fragrance of the Year
Rising Star Perfumer
Up-and-Coming Niche Brand
Retailer / Distributor
Most Impactful Content Creator – Writing
Most Impactful Content Creator – Vlogging
Brand's Début Fragrance
Brand Concept & Portfolio
Brand Approachability
Fragrance of the Year
Rising Star Perfumer
Up-and-Coming Niche Brand
Distributor / Retailer
Most Impactful Content Creator – Writing
Most Impactful Content Creator – Vlogging
Sustainability
Brand Concept & Portfolio
Brand Approachability
Rising Star Perfumer
Fragrance of the Year
Most Impactful Content Creator
