Abstract: An improved pigment-coated paper is provided which enables the use of a non-acidic basesheet in the manufacture of a fragrance release paper. The non-acidic basesheet, compared to the conventionally used acidic basesheet, is brighter and less brittle, and therefore imparts improved visual effects and reduces the likelihood of cracking. The clay-based coating composition is mildly alkaline when wet (pH between 7.5 and 8.5) and upon drying on the basesheet, becomes mildly acidic (pH between 6.0 and 7.0). A method of making the improved pigment-coated paper using a non-acidic basesheet in the manufacture of a fragrance release paper is provided, comprising the steps of preparing the basesheet, applying the premixed pigment coating composition using rollers and blade leveling devices, and drying the pigment coating composition. A fragrance sample construction, for use in magazines, catalogs, leaflets, etc.