trans-Methylgeranate (CAS 1189-09-09) — Floral Top to Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
trans-Methylgeranate
CAS 1189-09-09
What Is trans-Methylgeranate?
trans-Methylgeranate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient often used in perfumes and body care products to add a fresh, rosy, and slightly fruity character. You’ll encounter it in floral and citrus-forward fragrances. This molecule matters because it provides a clean, uplifting quality that bridges floral and citrus notes, making it versatile in modern perfumery while being more stable than some natural alternatives.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does trans-Methylgeranate Smell Like?
trans-Methylgeranate opens with a bright, almost effervescent quality reminiscent of crushed rose petals and Meyer lemon zest. As it evolves, the heart reveals a polished geranium leaf character—waxy green with a hint of minty coolness. The dry-down is surprisingly tenacious for a top-mid note, leaving a delicate trail of rosewater-soaked apples. Unlike natural geranium oils, it lacks the earthy pungency, presenting instead as a precision-tuned floralcy that never veers into soapy territory.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as a luminous top-mid bridge between the citrus opening and magnolia heart, adding dimensionality to the floral accord without overpowering the delicate magnolia.
Provides a contemporary twist on rose by amplifying the fruity facets of the centifolia absolute while maintaining excellent diffusion in the floral bouquet.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
trans-Methylgeranate is the methyl ester of trans-geranic acid, belonging to the monoterpenoid ester class. Industrially produced via esterification of geraniol derivatives, it’s valued for its oxidative stability compared to alcohol precursors. The trans-configuration at the 2,3-double bond is critical for odor quality—cis isomers exhibit greener, harsher characteristics. Modern synthesis often employs lipase-catalyzed routes for higher stereoselectivity under mild conditions.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | ~230 °C (estimated) |
| Density | ~0.89 g/cm³ (estimated) |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-5% | Up to 10% | Floral modifier with lifting effect |
| Body Care | 0.2-1% | Up to 3% | Adds freshness without irritation |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use to ‘lift’ heavy floral bases—0.5% can prevent jasmine absolutes from becoming cloying.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More fruity and less rosy; suitable when a brighter, less sophisticated floralcy is desired.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not restricted under current IFRA standards (Amendment 49).
RIFM Assessment
Currently under evaluation by RIFM; preliminary data suggests low sensitization potential.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, trans-Methylgeranate reduces pressure on natural geranium crops. Production typically uses bio-based geraniol from sustainable turpentine sources. The esterification process has been optimized for minimal solvent use and energy input in recent years.
Explore trans-Methylgeranate
Browse essential oils and aroma compounds.
Browse on iHerb →Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
References
- Brenna et al. (2012). Lipase-catalyzed resolution of geranic acid derivatives. Journal of Molecular Catalysis B: Enzymatic. DOI:10.1016/j.molcatb.2012.03.012
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data error
![Calciate(2-), [(ethylenedinitrilo)tetraacetato]-, disodium, hydrate (CAS 23411-34-9) — Citrus N/A Note Fragrance Ingredient](https://thegoodscents.company/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/calciate-1-768x439.webp)
