Let’s talk about Bergamot

Bergamot is a rather odd-looking green citrus fruit that grows in Southern Italy. It is the size of an orange but similar in colour to lime or lemon, depending on how ripe it is. Perhaps the odd shape is to put you off eating it, as it is far too bitter and acidic to eat.

Whilst the aroma can be reminiscent of Orange oil, which sounds innocent enough, it is not to everyone’s taste. Love it or loathe it, though, Bergamot is one of the most commonly used oils as a top note in perfumes, and it’s not going anywhere.

Although it first appeared in Calabria around the mid 17th Century, it is now also cultivated in the South of France, Southern Turkey, Argentina and Brazil. However, the Bergamot used in fragrances (both perfume and our own candles) comes from Italy, as this is the best quality.

Bergamot essential oil is obtained from the rind by cold pressing. The oil produces some important molecules responsible for the vibrant olfactory profile, ranging from fresh citrus to a woody, spicy aroma. If you like Earl Grey tea, you will recognise the smell as it’s used to flavour the tea leaves.

In aromatherapy, the soothing aroma of Bergamot essential oil helps relieve tension and anxiety. Research also shows that the essential oil has positive benefits on our mental health as the sunny and uplifting citrus scent helps lighten the mood and encourages confidence.

It is such a luxurious fragrance helping to give a well balanced and full-bodied aroma to both perfume and home fragrances. If you’d like to try it (or avoid it!), you can currently find the luscious scent of Bergamot in the following two Maison Vivi candles;

L’atelier de l’artiste
Earthy spice and a citrus twist among the orange blossom

Patchouli and sunshine bring the scent of the earth to life, as Bergamot adds a breezy citrus tang. White orange blossom flutters to the floor like confetti. L’Atelier de l’artiste is for your inner bohemian, for the gentle soul who likes to feel the grass underfoot and wind in their hair.

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Sunset in Provence
Bold florals, radiant citrus and native lavender, of course…

Surrender to Provence and its rolling lavender fields. Let uplifting bergamot delight you with its radiance as the evening turns to gold, and the cafés welcome you in. Stroll down the cobbled streets of its villages as the sky fades to amber. From the balconies above, geraniums, red petals aflame, vie for your attention as you toast your next adventure.

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