Bergamot

Citrus · appears in 23 documented compositions

Sparkling, slightly bitter citrus with a floral-tea edge; it lifts an opening without adding sweetness.

Library uses

23

Dominant placement

top

Avg. longevity of hosts

9.6 h

Strongest season

Spring

Origin & sourcing

Cold-pressed from the rind of Citrus bergamia grown almost exclusively in Calabria, Italy.

What matters about it

  • Roughly 80-90% of the world's bergamot oil comes from a narrow coastal strip of Calabria.
  • Bergapten (a furocoumarin) is removed to make FCF bergamot, which is what most modern fine fragrance uses.
  • Extremely volatile: measurable on skin for 15-45 minutes, which is why it lives in the top note.

How it behaves in a formula

Across this library, Bergamot appears 23 times as a top note, 0 times in the heart and 0 times in the base. Placement is the single best predictor of what you will actually smell: top-note materials are high-volatility and gone within the hour, base-note materials are fixatives that define the final and longest phase of the wear.

Compositions containing Bergamot in this library average 9.6 hours of documented longevity, and skew toward spring and autumn wear. Treat that as a tendency of the citrus family rather than a property of the material alone — dose, supporting accord and concentration all move the result.

Fragrances built with Bergamot

Shalimar by Guerlain fragrance bottle

Guerlain

Shalimar

1925

Amber Oriental · Women

Crafted by Jacques Guerlain in 1925 and inspired by the legendary love story of Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal, Shalimar stands as one of the absolute masterpieces of amber oriental perfumery. The fragrance opens with an intense, sparkling burst of citrus dominated by crisp lemon and bergamot, which rapidly transitions into a dark, powdery, and deeply resinous heart. The core is anchored by a generous overdose of natural iris and smoky vetiver, creating an intriguing tension between cool, earthy elegance and smoldering warmth. As it settles onto the skin, Shalimar reveals its true identity through a legendary dry-down of rich, animalic vanilla, smooth leather, opoponax, and incense. Rather than a modern, linear confection, this composition demands patience and skin chemistry interaction, shifting continuously over many hours. It is an unapologetically dramatic, opulent, and historical olfactory journey designed for those who appreciate complex vintage architecture and profound depth in fragrance.

10-14 hoursAutumn / Winter
Acqua di Gio by Giorgio Armani fragrance bottle

Giorgio Armani

Acqua di Gio

1996

Aromatic Aquatic · Men

Composed by master perfumer Alberto Morillas in 1996 and inspired by the pristine volcanic cliffs of Pantelleria island, Acqua di Gio revolutionized masculine fresh perfumery by establishing the benchmark for aquatic aromatics. The opening presents a sun-drenched collision of Mediterranean citrus fruits—crisp lime, lemon, and bergamot—immediately tempered by watery marine accords and synthetic calone that recreate the exact sensation of sea spray hitting warm skin. The intricate heart blends aromatic rosemary and crisp floral notes with green undertones, preventing the fragrance from becoming a simple aquatic clone. As time passes, the composition settles into a clean, unpretentious base of white musk, cedar, and subtle patchouli. It is an enduring classic praised for its effortless versatility, making it a reliable staple for warm weather wear without ever feeling intrusive or overly synthetic.

6-8 hoursSpring / Summer
Black Orchid by Tom Ford fragrance bottle

Tom Ford

Black Orchid

2006

Amber Floral · Unisex

Developed in 2006 by fragrance house Givaudan under Tom Ford's vision, Black Orchid was conceived around the quest for a custom-grown, pitch-black flower with deep, complex narcotic properties. The opening is a daring, opulent juxtaposition of earthy black truffle, damp soil nuances, and lush dark fruits balanced by bright bergamot. At its heart lies a proprietary illusion of a deep black orchid note, layered with heavy dark spices, lotus wood, and rich florals that lean toward the gothic. The dry-down is an indulgent gourmand-resinous blend featuring dark Mexican chocolate, warm incense, heavy patchouli, and creamy vanilla. It challenges conventional gender boundaries in perfumery with its dark, brooding elegance, offering a heavy, atmospheric aura that demands confidence and cold-weather alignment.

10-12 hoursAutumn / Winter
Aventus by Creed fragrance bottle

Creed

Aventus

2010

Chypre Fruity · Men

Conceived by Olivier Creed and Erwin Creed in 2010, Aventus draws conceptual inspiration from the dramatic life of a historic emperor, balancing war and peace, strength and success. The scent opens with a sharp, vibrant juxtaposition of tart green apple, crisp bergamot, black currant, and a distinct, juicy blast of sweet pineapple. This bright fruity introduction is rapidly grounded by a smoky, woody heart built around dark birch wood and earthy patchouli, providing a compelling contrast to the initial sweetness. The base settles into a clean, masculine mixture of musk, oakmoss, and a touch of rich ambergris, yielding a distinctive signature. Highly celebrated for its exceptional versatility and striking character, it remains a defining pillar of modern masculine niche perfumery.

8-10 hoursSpring / Summer / Autumn
Bleu de Chanel by Chanel fragrance bottle

Chanel

Bleu de Chanel

2010

Woody Aromatic · Men

Created by in-house Chanel perfumer Jacques Polge in 2010, Bleu de Chanel redefined modern masculine blue fragrances by combining crisp freshness with a sophisticated, dense woody-amber base. The composition opens with an energetic, effervescent burst of citrus fruits—grapefruit, lemon, and bergamot—accented by a sharp pinch of pink pepper and cooling mint. The heart transitions toward a clean, spicy warmth featuring fresh ginger and nutmeg. Unlike simpler fresh scents, Bleu de Chanel deepens significantly in its dry-down, introducing a smoky touch of incense, rich cedarwood, dry amber, and sandalwood. This deliberate contrast between an uplifting, bright opening and a mysterious, grounded base makes it one of the most reliable and universally praised versatile scents in contemporary perfumery.

7-9 hoursSpring / Summer / Autumn
J'adore by Dior fragrance bottle

Dior

J'adore

1999

Floral Fruity · Women

Created by Calice Becker in 1999, J'adore is an ode to absolute femininity, opulent floral bouquets, and golden luxury. The fragrance opens with a luminous, succulent fruit cocktail of crisp pear, sweet melon, peach, and sparkling bergamot, balanced by fresh magnolia blossoms. The heart is a grand, masterclass floral arrangement featuring rare Grasse jasmine, star-studded tuberose, lily of the valley, and damask rose. The dry-down settles into a soft, sophisticated base of clean musk, subtle vanilla, and warm cedar wood. It projects an aura of polished elegance and timeless sophistication, making it an iconic staple for formal events and high-end daytime wear.

7-9 hoursSpring / Summer
Y Eau de Parfum by Yves Saint Laurent fragrance bottle

Yves Saint Laurent

Y Eau de Parfum

2018

Aromatic Fougere · Men

Formulated by master perfumer Dominique Ropion in 2018, Y Eau de Parfum represents the drive of a modern generation of men who dare to follow their passions. The scent opens with a sharp, vibrant burst of crisp green apple, zesty ginger, and bright bergamot. The heart introduces a clean, herbal-aromatic bridge built around sage, crisp juniper berries, and fresh geranium. The dry-down features an intensely powerful, modern foundation of dark amberwood, sweet tonka bean, cedar, and resinous olibanum. Designed for high performance and exceptional crowd-pleasing appeal, it strikes an ideal balance between clean, shower-fresh brightness and rich, sweet, masculine sensuality.

9-11 hoursSpring / Autumn / Summer
Good Girl by Carolina Herrera fragrance bottle

Carolina Herrera

Good Girl

2016

Amber Floral · Women

Created by Louise Turner in 2016 and housed in an iconic stiletto heel bottle, Good Girl plays on the duality of modern femininity through the concept of 'it's so good to be bad'. The fragrance opens with a rich, inviting collision of dark roasted coffee beans and nutty bitter almond, cut through with a flash of bright citrus. The heart presents a lush, narcotic floral trio of sweet tuberose, exotic jasmine sambac, and orange blossom. The dark, decadent dry-down melts into a rich gourmand base of warm tonka bean, sweet cacao, vanilla, and praline. It offers a magnetic, high-contrast signature that is bold, confident, and perfectly tailored for evening social settings.

8-10 hoursAutumn / Winter
Gris Dior by Dior fragrance bottle

Dior

Gris Dior

2017

Chypre Floral · Unisex

Composed by Francois Demachy as part of the Maison Christian Dior collection, Gris Dior translates the iconic grey color of the historic Dior avenue boutique into an olfactory masterpiece. The fragrance opens with a sharp, sparkling burst of citrus led by bergamot. The heart reveals an elegant, crisp composition of Turkish rose laced with delicate fruit nuances, steering clear of excessive sweetness. The foundation is a classic modern chypre structure featuring clean patchouli, mossy undertones, and cedar. It is a minimalist, effortlessly chic creation that evokes tailored tailoring, clean lines, and quiet luxury for individuals who prefer understated sophistication.

7-9 hoursSpring / Autumn
Delina by Parfums de Marly fragrance bottle

Parfums de Marly

Delina

2017

Floral · Women

Formulated by perfumer Quentin Bisch in 2017, Delina is a modern regal floral fragrance inspired by 18th-century royal French elegance. The fragrance introduces itself with a vibrant, tart, and crisp explosion of juicy litchi, sharp rhubarb, and bergamot. The lush heart is anchored by heavy Turkish rose and luminous peony, softened by a touch of powdery petalia. The long-lasting dry-down introduces a textured, woody base of cashmeran, clean cedar, vetiver, and warm incense. It delivers an intoxicating balance of tart fruitiness and creamy, velvety floral grandeur, making it one of the most celebrated high-end feminine creations of the decade.

10-12 hoursSpring / Summer
Silver Mountain Water by Creed fragrance bottle

Creed

Silver Mountain Water

1995

Aromatic · Unisex

Conceived by Olivier Creed in 1995, Silver Mountain Water was inspired by the crisp, invigorating purity of sparkling streams rushing through the snow-capped Swiss Alps. The fragrance opens with a sharp, icy blast of zesty bergamot and sweet mandarin orange. The heart introduces a unique, watery-green accord featuring aromatic green tea and tart black currant, providing an uplifting, crisp herbal sensation. The base settles into a clean, metallic-tinged blend of white musk, sandalwood, and green galbanum. It is an exceptionally refreshing, crisp, and clean composition prized for its cool, crystalline aura during warm spring and summer months.

6-8 hoursSpring / Summer
Soleil Blanc by Tom Ford fragrance bottle

Tom Ford

Soleil Blanc

2016

Amber Floral · Unisex

Launched in 2016 within Tom Ford's Private Blend collection, Soleil Blanc captures the remote, sun-drenched luxury of private island getaways and sun-baked skin. The fragrance opens with an unusual, nutty opening of warm pistachio blended with spicy cardamom and crisp bergamot. The heart blooms into a rich, solar floral bouquet of creamy tuberose, exotic ylang-ylang, and sweet jasmine. The dry-down wraps the wearer in a decadent blanket of rich coconut milk, golden amber, and smooth tonka bean. It avoids being a generic coconut sunscreen by introducing sophisticated floral and nutty nuances, making it the ultimate definition of high-end tropical elegance.

7-9 hoursSummer / Spring
Rouge Chaotique by Byredo fragrance bottle

Byredo

Rouge Chaotique

2023

Amber Gourmand · Unisex

Introduced in 2023 as part of Byredo's Night Veils collection, Rouge Chaotique is a decadent gourmand-oud hybrid that explores the beauty of discordant elements. The fragrance opens with a rich, dark burst of juicy black currant and spicy saffron. The heart shifts into a luscious, sticky layer of sweet praline and ripe plum, contrasting sharply with a fierce foundation of authentic dark oud, patchouli, and papyrus. It is a bold, modern, and intoxicating creation designed for those who gravitate toward dark, sweet complexity.

10-12 hoursAutumn / Winter
Fleur de Peau by Diptyque fragrance bottle

Diptyque

Fleur de Peau

2018

Floral Aldehyde · Unisex

Created to celebrate the myth of Psyche and Eros, Diptyque's Fleur de Peau is the ultimate modern 'skin scent'. Formulated around a massive overdose of powdery ambrette seed and elegant iris, the fragrance opens with a sparkling touch of pink pepper and aldehydes. The heart melts into the skin like warm, suede-like musk with subtle earthy carrot nuances. It is a deeply sensual, comforting, and understated masterpiece that smells like the natural scent of skin elevated to high art.

8-10 hoursSpring / Autumn / Summer
L'Interdit Eau de Parfum by Givenchy fragrance bottle

Givenchy

L'Interdit Eau de Parfum

2018

Amber Floral · Women

Created by Dominique Ropion, Anne Flipo, and Fanny Bal in 2018, this modern reimagining of Givenchy's classic 1957 fragrance is an invitation to defy convention. The scent opens with a crisp, juicy burst of pear and bergamot. The luminous floral heart features a bold overdose of white florals including tuberose, orange blossom, and jasmine sambac. The dark, contrasting base merges earthy patchouli with smooth vanilla and ambroxan, creating an unforgettable trail of elegant defiance and luminous mystery.

9-11 hoursAutumn / Spring / Winter
Neroli Portofino by Tom Ford fragrance bottle

Tom Ford

Neroli Portofino

2011

Citrus Aromatic · Unisex

Formulated by Rodrigo Flores-Roux in 2011, Neroli Portofino captures the cool breezes, sparkling clear waters, and lush foliage of the Italian Riviera. The fragrance opens with a vibrant, invigorating splash of crisp citrus notes including bergamot, lemon, and mandarin orange, spiked with aromatic rosemary and lavender. The heart blooms into a lush, clean bouquet of rich neroli and orange blossom. The base settles into a soft, smooth trail of amber and ambrette. It is the epitome of effortless Mediterranean summer luxury and timeless coastal elegance.

5-7 hoursSpring / Summer
L'Immensite by Louis Vuitton fragrance bottle

Louis Vuitton

L'Immensite

2018

Amber Spicy · Men

Created by Jacques Cavallier in 2018, L'Immensite captures the feeling of boundless freedom and open horizons through an electrifying contrast of icy ginger and sun-drenched citrus. The fragrance opens with a sharp, vibrant burst of bitter grapefruit, zesty bergamot, and a massive dose of fresh ginger. The aquatic heart blends crisp watery notes with aromatic sage, rosemary, and geranium. The clean, magnetic dry-down settles into a smooth bed of ambroxan and amber. It is a masterclass in modern masculine freshness, balancing crisp energy with sophisticated depth.

9-11 hoursSpring / Summer / Autumn
Ani by Nishane fragrance bottle

Nishane

Ani

2019

Amber Floral · Unisex

Created by Cecile Zarokian in 2019, Ani is named after the ancient ruined medieval city of Ani and stands as one of the greatest modern vanilla-forward niche fragrances. The scent opens with a sharp, sparkling blast of fresh ginger, green notes, and bright bergamot. The spicy heart introduces rich cardamom and tart black currant. The magnificent dry-down reveals an opulent, buttery vanilla blended with warm amber and sandalwood. It is celebrated for its romantic complexity, velvety texture, and massive performance.

12+ hoursAutumn / Winter
Hacivat by Nishane fragrance bottle

Nishane

Hacivat

2017

Chypre Fruity · Unisex

Formulated by Jorge Lee in 2017, Hacivat is a tribute to elegance, kindness, and art, designed as a sophisticated woody-fruity chypre counterpart to traditional fresh standards. The fragrance opens with an explosive, ultra-crisp combination of juicy pineapple, sharp grapefruit, and bergamot. The refined heart introduces clean cedar, patchouli, and delicate jasmine. The deep foundation rests on a rich, mossy oakmoss base that gives it incredible masculine backbone and long-lasting presence. It is a powerhouse of fresh sophistication.

11-13 hoursSpring / Summer / Autumn
Wulong Cha by Nishane fragrance bottle

Nishane

Wulong Cha

2015

Citrus Aromatic · Unisex

Composed by Jorge Lee in 2015, Wulong Cha is an exquisite aromatic tea fragrance designed to transport the wearer to a tranquil Asian tea ceremony surrounded by lush citrus groves. The fragrance opens with an invigorating, crystal-clear burst of Mediterranean citrus notes including bergamot, orange, and litsea cubeba. The heart centers around an authentic, soothing oolong tea accord blended with a pinch of spicy nutmeg. The clean, comforting dry-down settles into soft fig and musk, offering exceptional longevity for a fresh citrus-tea scent.

8-10 hoursSpring / Summer
Layton by Parfums de Marly fragrance bottle

Parfums de Marly

Layton

2016

Amber Floral · Unisex

Created by Hamid Merati-Kashani in 2016, Layton is one of the most universally acclaimed modern designer-niche crossover fragrances, known for its irresistible blend of freshness, spice, and gourmand depth. The scent opens with a crisp, juicy burst of tart apple, lavender, and mandarin orange. The aromatic heart introduces floral notes of geranium and violet. The rich, addictive dry-down melts into a decadent base of vanilla, precious cardamom, sandalwood, and warm pepper, making it a crowd-pleasing masterpiece.

10-12 hoursAutumn / Winter / Spring
Pegasus by Parfums de Marly fragrance bottle

Parfums de Marly

Pegasus

2011

Amber Fougere · Men

Composed by Hamid Merati-Kashani in 2011, Pegasus is a metallic-powdery fougere fragrance that offers a distinct, aristocratic aura. The fragrance opens with a unique, powdery-sweet blend of heliotrope, spicy cumin, and bergamot. The heart introduces a prominent, smooth bitter almond note laced with clean lavender and jasmine. The luxurious dry-down wraps the composition in creamy vanilla, sandalwood, and warm amber. It is an exceptionally smooth, metallic, and almond-forward creation that stands out in any collection.

10-12 hoursSpring / Autumn / Winter
Green Leyton / Althair by Parfums de Marly fragrance bottle

Parfums de Marly

Green Leyton / Althair

2023

Amber Vanilla · Unisex

Formulated by Hamid Merati-Kashani and Ilias Ermenidis in 2023, Althair is a modern homage to ultra-luxurious bourbon vanilla, blending opulent sweetness with refined warm spices. The fragrance opens with a vibrant spiced fusion of cinnamon, cardamom, and orange blossom. The heart unveils a lush, deep concentration of high-quality bourbon vanilla and resinous elemi. The decadent dry-down melts into a rich base of sweet praline, smooth musk, and ambroxan. It is an ultra-smooth, comforting, and modern gourmand masterpiece.

11-13 hoursAutumn / Winter