Madurai Jasmine — Wooden Wick Candle

The flower market at Madurai opens before dawn. Jasmine arrives in sacks, is weighed by the kilo, and strung into garlands while the air is still cool enough to hold the smell.

This is that hour. Jasmine, undiluted — green at the top, heavy and sweet underneath, the way it smells in quantity rather than on a single stem.

Fragrance
Jasmine, single note.

The wick
Wood, not cotton. It crackles as it burns. Trim it to about 3 mm before each lighting.

Care
On the first burn, let the melted wax reach the edge of the vessel. Never leave a burning candle unattended or within reach of children and pets.