I was surprised how strong the scent of the cedar candles are. Not overpowering, but definitely present even without burning them. The candle themselves have a lovely feel to them. Silky and heavy. I honestly could not go back to ordinary taper candles after having these. I purchased the Carriere Freres Mentha Spicata (Spearmint) candles too. I would have ordered the CF Tomato scented tapers as well but they are not on the Libertine shop website.