What are the differences between the different vanilla pods?

Vanilla is a complex and rich aroma that can have many nuances depending on the variety and the terroir. Here is a list of flavors that could be present in vanilla beans, classified by type of vanilla:

Bourbon Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia) - Origin: Madagascar, Reunion Island, Comoros, Seychelles

• Vanillin (main aroma)
• Fruits (plum, cherry, raisin)
• Caramel
• Chocolate
• Cream
• Honey
• Spices (cinnamon, clove)

Mexican vanilla (Vanilla planifolia) - Origin: Mexico, Central America

• Vanillin
• Fruits (apricot, fig)
• Chocolate
• Coffee
• Spices (cinnamon, pepper)
• Sandalwood

Tahitian vanilla (Vanilla tahitensis) - Origin: French Polynesia, Papua New Guinea

• Vanillin
• Fruits (pineapple, mango, passion fruit)
• Floral (ylang-ylang, jasmine)
• Almond
• tonka
• Lactonic (cream, milk)

Vanilla from India (Vanilla planifolia) - Origin: India

• Vanillin
• Fruit (apricot, banana)
• Caramel
• Honey
• Spices (cardamom, saffron)

Uganda vanilla (Vanilla planifolia) - Origin: Uganda

• Vanillin
• Fruits (plum, raisin)
• Chocolate
• Coffee
• Tobacco
• Spices (cinnamon, pepper)

Vanilla from Papua New Guinea (Vanilla planifolia) - Origin: Papua New Guinea

• Vanillin
• Fruit (apple, pear)
• Caramel
• Honey
• Wood (oak, cedar)

It is important to note that the aromas can vary according to the methods of cultivation, fermentation and drying, as well as the climatic conditions and the terroir. This list is therefore not exhaustive, but it gives an idea of the nuances that can be found in the different varieties of vanilla.