Bergamot, the essential citrus fruit of perfumery

In perfumery, certain raw materials are very popular and iconic—rose, jasmine, cedarwood... These are all notes that are widely used and appreciated in perfumes. The citrus fruit we are going to discover or rediscover today is so popular that it is rare not to find it in a fragrance creation. You may have guessed it already—I am talking about bergamot.

Derived from the fruit of the bergamot tree, bergamot is a hybrid citrus fruit between bitter orange and lime, offering a sparkling, fresh, and subtly floral fragrance that has captivated for centuries. But why is this ingredient so prized by perfumers? Let's dive into the fascinating world of bergamot and discover its origins, its properties, and its essential role in natural perfume creation.

The Origin of Bergamot

Originally from southern Italy, specifically from the sunny region of Calabria in Italy, bergamot has been a natural treasure for centuries. This citrus fruit, resembling a slightly bumpy lemon, is appreciated not only for its medicinal virtues but also for its exceptional olfactory properties.

According to legend, Christopher Columbus brought the first bergamot plants to Europe in the 16th century. However, it wasn't until the following centuries that bergamot cultivation developed in Calabria, where ideal climate conditions allowed the extraction of an essential oil of exceptional quality. Thus, bergamot gradually gained popularity in the world of perfumery, thanks to its unique fragrance: fresh, vibrant, and slightly sweet, with subtle floral undertones.
Used for its balancing properties in many compositions, bergamot has become an essential ingredient in perfumes, offering an elegant and luminous olfactory signature that transcends time.

What makes bergamot so precious is the essential oil contained in its thin peel. To extract the precious juice, a traditional method called "cold pressing" is used. This process mechanically presses the peel, preserving all the volatile aromatic molecules. The result is a fresh and luminous essence with a fragrance that is both complex and balanced. Bright and sparkling notes, blending citrus freshness with a slight bitterness and subtle floral accents that soften its vivacity. This unique combination offers a feeling of lightness and elegance. Bergamot is thus a signature olfactory note in perfumery, appreciated for its ability to finely and harmoniously bind other aromas.

An Irresistible Top Note

In the world of perfumery, bergamot is often used as a top note. Its vibrant and zesty freshness reveals itself in the first seconds of a perfume, offering a luminous and energizing lift. It brings a lightness that instantly charms, while preparing the senses for the deeper and more complex notes of the fragrance.

Whether in citrus, floral, or even oriental compositions, bergamot is a key ingredient that bridges the gap between different olfactory families. It balances sweeter or more amber notes and brings a subtle elegance that makes creations more harmonious and airy. It can beautifully pair with floral notes such as jasmine or neroli, or enhance spicier and woodier accords. It alone embodies the softness of summer mornings, with that solar freshness and delicate brilliance we seek in a perfume.

The Benefits of Bergamot Beyond Perfume

In addition to its olfactory qualities, bergamot is also known for its relaxing and soothing properties. Used in aromatherapy, it helps reduce stress and promotes relaxation. This dual function makes it an even more valuable ingredient in natural perfume creation. It not only creates a rich olfactory composition but also offers emotional well-being to those who wear the perfume.

Bergamot at Kanopé

I am one of the perfumers who includes bergamot in all my creations because it holds special meaning for me. It evokes a balance between light and emotion, a kind of instant well-being that I feel every time I breathe it in. It's as if it has the power to connect the body and mind, grounding me while bringing joy, in addition to the balance it provides to a perfume. That's why I love working with it in my creations.

One of my creations where it stands out the most is Ubud, a bright and zesty perfume that pays homage to the energy and serenity of the artistic and spiritual city of Bali. By blending bergamot with citron, I wanted to capture the radiant light of the Balinese sun. A few touches of ginger add dynamism, while geranium brings a subtle floral softness. Finally, vetiver evokes the fertile earth of the terraced rice fields, grounding the perfume in the lush nature surrounding Ubud. A true invitation to inner peace, where every note reflects the perfect harmony between man and nature.

(the story behind our Ubud perfume)

Bergamot is much more than just an ingredient in perfumery. It is a true invitation to a sensory journey. Its place in the creation of natural perfumes is undeniable, and its role continues to assert itself in modern and timeless compositions.

Whether you are a lover of citrus or simply in search of a refreshing and elegant fragrance, bergamot will seduce you with its complexity. It is the very essence of nature, an olfactory light that awakens our senses.