Crossword Genius

Award for French state is an aromatic assortment (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

potpourri

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'assortment' is the definition.
('potpourri' can be a synonym of 'assortment')

'award for french state is an aromatic' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'state' could be 'ri' (Rhode Island abbreviation) and 'ri' is present in the answer.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for potpourri that I've seen before include "Pleasant-smelling mixture" , "Petals and spice mixture; medley" , "Bowl or jar of fragrant petals and spices" , "Scented petals and spices" , "Dried petals for scent" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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