Quince is a unique, lesser-known fruit that belongs to the Rosaceae family, sharing traits with apples and pears. The fruit itself is somewhat round and lumpy, featuring a bright yellow skin when fully ripe. Quinces are renowned for their delightful, intense aroma and are usually too hard and tart to be eaten raw; cooking, however, transforms their flesh into a soft, sweet delicacy.
The scent profile of quince is complex and highly aromatic. It emits a floral, apple-like fragrance with hints of pear, citrus, and tropical notes, making it distinctly fragrant and often used for its perfuming properties. This rich aroma has subtle undertones of vanilla and spice, which add to its allure and make it a favorite ingredient in jams, jellies, and desserts, as well as in aromatic products like candles and potpourris. The unique and enchanting scent of quince has also inspired its use in various traditional and contemporary perfumes, enhancing their fragrance with its multifaceted, sweet, and tangy character.