In perfumery, top notes are the first impression—the scents that immediately arise upon application. These notes are usually light, volatile, and bright, setting the stage for the rest of the fragrance. Among the most beloved and widely used top notes is bergamot—a unique citrus fruit known for its fresh, slightly bitter-sweet, and highly refreshing aroma.
What Is Bergamot?
Bergamot is a small greenish-yellow citrus fruit, primarily grown in Mediterranean regions, especially Calabria, Italy. Though it resembles a blend of lemon, orange, and lime, its scent is far more complex and refined. The essential oil is extracted from the peel and used extensively in perfumes, especially as a top note.
Scent Profile of Bergamot
Bergamot has a distinctive scent characterized by:
Citrusy freshness with mild bitterness
Bright and vibrant with floral nuances
A slight sweetness and clean character
Herbal-green undertones reminiscent of tea leaves
Its complex blend of bitterness, sweetness, and freshness gives it a sophisticated edge that elevates any composition.
Role of Bergamot as a Top Note
1. Instant Brightness and Energy
As a top note, bergamot provides:
Immediate freshness
An elegant, refined citrus opening
A clean, uplifting aura
It is ideal for both masculine and feminine scents, as well as unisex fragrances.
2. Smooth Transition to Heart Notes
Bergamot acts as a bridge between sharper citrus notes (like lemon) and the floral or woody heart of the fragrance. It ensures a:
Smooth olfactory transition
Harmonious unfolding of the scent
Emotional and Aromatherapeutic Impact
Bergamot has strong psychological and therapeutic benefits:
Reduces stress and anxiety
Improves mood and promotes clarity
Evokes a sense of freshness, calm, and positivity
It is commonly used in aromatherapy for emotional balance and well-being.
Famous Perfumes Featuring Bergamot as a Top Note
Some well-known perfumes with bergamot include:
Acqua di Gio by Giorgio Armani – A marine-citrus classic with bergamot in the opening
Eau Sauvage by Dior – A timeless men’s fragrance with a crisp bergamot start
Allure Homme Sport by Chanel – Dynamic and refreshing with bergamot and aldehydes
Light Blue by Dolce & Gabbana – A vibrant, unisex summer scent with bergamot and green apple
Bergamote 22 by Le Labo – A niche fragrance built around pure, radiant bergamot
Blending Possibilities
Bergamot blends well with:
Other citruses (lemon, grapefruit, yuzu)
White florals (jasmine, orange blossom, rose)
Green notes (tea, petitgrain, mint)
Woody and musky bases (cedar, vetiver, ambroxan)
Soft spices (ginger, cardamom)
Conclusion
Bergamot, as a top note, delivers a radiant and sophisticated opening that captures attention immediately. It plays a key role in balancing freshness with complexity, contributing to both the scent’s structure and its emotional impact. Whether in classic colognes or modern niche perfumes, bergamot remains a cornerstone of citrus elegance and timeless appeal.