Citrus · Fresh

Bergamot

Citrus bergamia

Bergamot is the aristocrat of the citrus family — less brash than lemon, more complex than orange, with a bitter-sweet elegance that has made it the opening note of perfumery's greatest compositions. Grown almost exclusively in Calabria, Italy, its essential oil bridges freshness and sophistication like no other citrus.

Intensity
Longevity
Projection
Confidence Optimism Sophistication Business Casual Professional Spring Summer
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The Scent

Bright, bitter-sweet citrus with a distinctive floral undertone. Less sharp than lemon, less sweet than orange. There's an almost tea-like quality (bergamot flavors Earl Grey) that gives it intellectual refinement. The finest bergamot has a slightly peppery, aromatic complexity that disappears quickly — making the opening minutes precious.

Psychological Profile

Bergamot signals optimism tempered by sophistication. It's the scent of someone who's alert, engaged, and ready — but not anxious or aggressive. Research links citrus exposure to increased perception of competence and energy.

What It Signals

  • You're confident without being aggressive
  • You value refinement over showiness
  • You're approachable but not casual
  • You project bright, optimistic energy

Psychological Properties

  • Energy: Uplifting, bright
  • Temperature: Cool to neutral
  • Formality: Business casual to formal
  • Season: Spring and summer
  • Time of Day: Morning and daytime

When Bergamot Works

Perfect For

  • Morning meetings — signals alertness
  • Job interviews — confident without intimidating
  • First impressions of any kind
  • Spring/summer professional settings
  • When you need energy without aggression

Avoid For

  • Formal evening events — too light
  • Winter heavy-weather — gets lost
  • When you need gravitas or authority
  • Late night — fades too quickly

Complementary Notes

Pairs Beautifully With

  • Neroli — citrus-floral Mediterranean harmony
  • Vetiver — fresh opening for earthy base
  • Rose — brightness enhances floral elegance
  • Lavender — aromatic-citrus sophistication
  • Iris — refined cool elegance

Avoid Pairing With

  • Oud — bergamot gets overwhelmed
  • Patchouli — too dark for bergamot's brightness
  • Heavy gourmands — contradictory messages

Iconic Fragrances

Further Reading

Related Notes