Of the five senses, smell has generally gotten the shaft. We’re more often slaves to the other four, neglecting to realize just how perceptive our noses really are. Yet, smell has the ability to time-travel, to rouse old ghosts.

The psychological effects triggered by certain scents has long fascinated perfumer Anne McClain, founder of Brooklyn-based MCMC Fragrances, evident in her carefully crafted perfumes that awaken the nose, the mind, the tender buttons of the soul. Fittingly, the MCMC Stories Collection embraces the belief that memories can be translated into scents. Each perfume is inspired by McClain’s personal experiences, which are detailed in the individual description of each one of them, adding an intimate, tangible note to each fragrance.

A whiff of the Dude No. 1 Beard Oil, inspired by McClain’s significant other, leaves us reveling in a fresh, spicy haze of Virginia cedarwood, green coriander and pink peppercorn. It’s a heady, masculine mix; perfectly layered, 100% natural, and precisely what the ideal wood-chopping, tempeh- or deer-hunting man should smell like. Plus, with nourishing oils of hemp seed and jojoba, it replenishes those dry straggly hairs into glistening mutton chops and chin whiskers.

Written by Caroline Pham