Sicilian bergamot

What Does It Smell Like?

Sicilian bergamot smells like biting into the bright flesh of a bitter orange—simultaneously zesty and subtly floral. Imagine fresh-cut citrus peel catching afternoon sunlight: sharp, almost peppery top notes give way to a delicate, almost perfumed sweetness underneath. It's more refined than lemon, less sweet than orange, with an intriguing mineral quality and a whisper of florality that makes it feel sophisticated rather than simply fruity. The aroma is distinctly Mediterranean—crisp, energetic, and impossibly fresh.

Origin & History

Bergamot grows almost exclusively in Calabria, southern Italy, where the unique terroir—volcanic soil and sea air—creates the world's finest variety. The fruit (Citrus bergamia) is cold-pressed from the peel, typically harvested between November and February. A single bergamot produces only 5ml of precious essential oil. Historically prized since the 18th century, it became the signature note of Eau de Cologne and remains the beating heart of countless classic fragrances. The synthetic alternative, bergapten-free bergamot, was developed to reduce photosensitivity concerns.

In Perfumery

Bergamot is perfumery's workhorse opening act—a sparkling top note that catches attention immediately. Its volatility means it evaporates relatively quickly, typically lasting 15–30 minutes, yet it sets the fragrance's entire emotional tone. Perfumers deploy it to add brightness, freshness, or subtle complexity to everything from colognes to Oriental scents, where it provides a luminous counterpoint to heavier base notes.

Pairs Beautifully With

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