Segment Information (Segment Assets) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Consolidated segment assets	$ 2,965,581	$ 2,872,455
Flavors [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Consolidated segment assets	1,327,279	1,273,126
Fragrances [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Consolidated segment assets	1,512,511	1,449,001
Global Assets [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Consolidated segment assets	$ 125,791	$ 150,328