citrus bergamia
Citrus Family
A bright, fresh citrus note with a unique floral and slightly spicy edge.
moderate
short
1 fragrances
Citrus
Olfactory Profile
About citrus bergamia
Citrus bergamia, more commonly known as bergamot, is a fragrant citrus fruit the size of an orange, with a yellow or green color similar to a lime, depending on ripeness. The essence of bergamot is obtained from the peel of the fruit and has a complex scent profile that is at once citrusy, floral, and somewhat spicy. It's a top note in perfumery, prized for its ability to add a fresh, uplifting, and elegant layer to fragrances. Bergamot originates from the Calabria region in Italy, where the majority of the world's supply is still produced. It's used in a wide array of perfumes, most notably in the classic Eau de Cologne and many chypre and fougère fragrances.
Natural Sources
- •Bergamot orange (Citrus bergamia)
Synthetic Alternatives
While natural bergamot oil is preferred for its complex scent, synthetic versions or components are sometimes used to replicate its fresh-citrusy character due to restrictions on certain natural compounds found in bergamot oil.
Perfumer's Tips
Often used as a top note to give an initial impression of freshness, bergamot blends well with a wide range of other notes, enhancing and uplifting the fragrance composition. Its phototoxicity should be reduced or eliminated through bergapten-free (BF) processing for safe use in skin products.