One thing that's puzzled me is whether or not the fragrance substance (seems oily in nature) actually matures throughout the life of the blossom. We know that all parts of a flower are continually maturing more and more each day--so why not the chemistry the fragrance as well. I'd like to know. I seem to find the fragrance gets downright pugnant sometimes, but that might be weather related.
Rick, your second paragraph sounds logical--maybe it is nature's way of attracting bees, etc. closer to the center of reproductive activity.
My only experience with the smell test comes from Trumpets, Oriental Trumpets and Longiflorum Asiatic with trumpet and bowl flower form, not with reflexed or highly reflexed forms.
