Kerosene Fragrances Black Vines Eau de Parfum is a bold, unconventional spicy gourmand fragrance inspired by the unmistakable aroma of black licorice. Created by independent American perfumer John Pegg, Black Vines combines aromatic star anise, warming cinnamon, green ivy, ripe fig, Canadian fir, Peru balsam, tonka bean, incense, and vanilla to create a distinctive fragrance that feels both dark and comforting.

Originally introduced in 2014, Black Vines was inspired by Pegg's personal love of black licorice candy. Rather than recreating a straightforward sugary confection, he wanted to capture the spicy, aromatic complexity of licorice while balancing its sweetness with green, woody, and resinous elements.

The result is a richly textured niche fragrance where bold anise and cinnamon meet evergreen freshness, warm balsams, and soft vanilla. Unusual, memorable, and unmistakably Kerosene, Black Vines is particularly appealing to those who enjoy licorice fragrances, spicy gourmands, and atmospheric perfumes with a distinctive personality.

Why You'll Love It

• Star anise creates the unmistakable black licorice aroma that defines the fragrance.

• Cinnamon introduces a rich, warming spice that complements the aromatic sweetness.

• Green ivy provides an earthy, leafy freshness that contrasts with the deeper gourmand notes.

• Fig adds a subtle fruity richness and softness.

• Canadian fir contributes a distinctive evergreen character reminiscent of fresh conifer needles.

• Peru balsam and incense introduce warm, resinous depth and a gently smoky quality.

• Tonka bean and vanilla soften the composition with comforting sweetness.

• A truly unconventional gourmand, balancing bold licorice spice with green woods rather than relying on conventional caramel or sugary dessert notes.

Fragrance Profile

Official Fragrance Notes:

• Ivy

• Fig

• Star Anise

• Cinnamon

• Canadian Fir

• Balsam of Peru

• Tonka

• Incense

• Vanilla

Scent Family: Spicy Gourmand, Aromatic, Green, Resinous

Overall Scent: Bold star anise creates an unmistakable black licorice character, intensified by the warmth of cinnamon. Green ivy and Canadian fir introduce fresh, earthy, evergreen nuances, while fig provides a subtle fruity contrast. Peru balsam, incense, tonka bean, and vanilla create a warm, resinous foundation with a gentle sweetness.

Inspired by a Love of Black Licorice

Black Vines began with a personal inspiration: John Pegg's affection for black licorice.

Rather than creating a conventional candy-inspired fragrance, Pegg set out to explore the aromatic complexity behind one of his favorite treats.

At the center of the composition is star anise, the distinctive spice responsible for much of the familiar aroma associated with black licorice candy. Its bold, aromatic character gives Black Vines an immediately recognizable identity.

Cinnamon adds warmth and intensity, creating a spicy contrast that makes the fragrance feel particularly inviting.

But Black Vines is not simply a combination of licorice and sugar.

Ivy and Canadian fir introduce an unexpected green dimension, evoking climbing vines, evergreen trees, and the fresh character of a woodland landscape.

Fig contributes a subtle fruity softness, while Peru balsam adds a rich, resinous warmth that bridges the aromatic spices and deeper notes.

Incense introduces a gently smoky atmosphere, and tonka bean and vanilla provide a smooth, comforting sweetness.

Together, these elements create a fragrance that captures the recognizable pleasure of black licorice while surrounding it with the textures of a dark, aromatic forest.

A Darker Interpretation of Gourmand Perfumery

Kerosene is particularly well known for its imaginative gourmand fragrances, but Black Vines offers something quite different from the brand's coffee, caramel, and vanilla-centered compositions.

Its dominant star anise and cinnamon combination creates a spicy, licorice-like character that is far more aromatic than conventionally sugary.

The addition of Canadian fir and ivy introduces a fresh, green contrast, while Peru balsam and incense provide depth and warmth.

Compared with Sweetly Known, which emphasizes cardamom, cocoa, and burnt caramel, Black Vines is more distinctly licorice-forward and resinous.

It also differs from Unknown Pleasures, with its lemon, Earl Grey tea, and caramel character, offering a darker and more spice-driven gourmand experience.

For fragrance enthusiasts who enjoy black licorice perfumes, star anise fragrances, spicy vanilla scents, and resinous gourmands, Black Vines offers an especially distinctive interpretation.

Its warming character makes it particularly appealing during autumn and winter, although its green and aromatic elements give it a personality beyond a traditional cold-weather fragrance.

Product Details

• Brand: Kerosene Fragrances

• Product Name: Black Vines

• Size: 100 ml / 3.4 fl oz

• Concentration: Eau de Parfum

• Scent Family: Spicy Gourmand, Aromatic, Green, Resinous

• Official Notes: Ivy, Fig, Star Anise, Cinnamon, Canadian Fir, Balsam of Peru, Tonka, Incense, Vanilla

• Scent Character: Licorice, Spicy, Warm, Green, Resinous, Gently Sweet

• Perfumer: John Pegg

• Original Launch Year: 2014

• Inspiration: John Pegg's love of black licorice and its distinctive aromatic character

• Gender: Genderless

• Brand Origin: United States

• Production: Made in the USA

• Authenticity: Genuine Kerosene Fragrances perfume

• Skin Sensitivity Note: Contains cinnamon oil. Sampling before purchasing a full bottle is recommended for individuals with skin sensitivities.

With its distinctive combination of bold star anise, warming cinnamon, green ivy, Canadian fir, rich balsams, incense, and soft vanilla, Kerosene Black Vines Eau de Parfum captures the unmistakable character of black licorice in a richly aromatic and unconventional spicy gourmand fragrance.