BATH PERFUMERY
ARTISAN MAKERS OF FINE PERFUME
NICHE, SMALL BATCH, LIMITED EDITION SCENTS HANDMADE IN BATH
Bath Perfumery are artisan makers of niche perfumes. We hand make exquisite small batch, limited edition niche perfumes, meticulously crafted to captivate the senses. Our niche fragrances are formulated at our perfumery nestled in the very heart of Bath's historic city centre, housed in a graceful Georgian town-house, dating from 1766.
Our unique artisan made idiosyncratic niche perfumes capture emotions and memories that evolve and unfurl through the day, lifting the olfactory experience into a sensory love affair. We design all our perfumes in house and each is carefully compounded and blended by olfactory artists at our perfumery in Bath. These traditional methods may be labour intensive but it allows us to create perfumes that are unique and impossible to mass-produce.
We grow and steam distil natural botanicals and use them to create some of the essential oils for our unique niche perfumes. We use time honoured perfuming techniques to produce clean, authentic natural oils which form the basis of our hand-bottled and sustainably-packaged scents. You can be assured that we only test our formulations and finished products on ourselves, never on animals. .
Popular scent combinations
Popular scent combinations often involve the blending of complementary fragrance notes that create a balanced and harmonious olfactory experience. Here are some of the most popular scent combinations.
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Citrus and Floral: This combination features bright, zesty citrus notes such as bergamot, lemon, or grapefruit, paired with delicate floral notes like jasmine, rose, or orange blossom. This pairing creates fresh and uplifting fragrances, often favoured in spring and summer.
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Woody and Spicy: This pairing includes warm, earthy, and woody notes such as sandalwood, cedar, or patchouli, combined with spicy elements like cinnamon, cardamom, or black pepper. This combination results in deep, rich, and sensual scents, often preferred in fall and winter.
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Fruity and Gourmand: This combination blends sweet, juicy fruit notes like peach, blackcurrant, or raspberry with gourmand elements such as vanilla, chocolate, or caramel. The result is a playful, dessert-like scent that can be both comforting and indulgent.
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Floral and Powdery: This pairing features floral notes like rose, iris, or violet, combined with powdery elements like orris root, heliotrope, or musk. This combination creates soft, elegant, and feminine fragrances, often with a touch of nostalgia.
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Aromatic and Fresh: This combination pairs aromatic, herbaceous notes like lavender, rosemary, or mint with fresh, green elements like grass, tea, or bamboo. The result is a clean, invigorating scent that is both uplifting and soothing.
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Oriental and Amber: This pairing combines rich, exotic notes like amber, incense, or myrrh with warm, sweet, and spicy elements like vanilla, tonka bean, or cinnamon. This combination creates opulent and seductive fragrances that are often complex and luxurious.
These popular scent combinations are just a few examples of the countless ways perfumers can blend fragrance notes to create captivating and memorable olfactory experiences. Each combination offers a distinct character and mood, allowing individuals to find a scent that resonates with their personal preferences and style
Unusual scent combinations
Unusual scent combinations can create unique, intriguing, and unexpected olfactory experiences. Here are some unconventional scent pairings that showcase the creativity and diversity in perfumery:
Marine and Gourmand:
This combination merges aquatic, marine notes like sea salt, seaweed, or ocean air with sweet, dessert-like elements such as vanilla, chocolate, or almond. This pairing creates a contrast between the fresh, bracing aspects of the sea and the warm, indulgent qualities of gourmand notes.
Smoky and Fruity:
This pairing brings together smoky, incense-like notes such as birch tar, cade, or tobacco with bright, fruity elements like bergamot, blackcurrant, or passion fruit. The result is an intriguing juxtaposition of darkness and light that can evoke both warmth and freshness.
Metallic and Floral:
This combination features metallic, mineral notes like aldehydes, cold steel, or silver alongside delicate, romantic floral notes such as rose, jasmine, or peony. The contrast between the cold, hard aspects of the metallic elements and the soft, ethereal qualities of the florals creates a modern and unexpected scent.
Earthy and Citrus:
This pairing combines earthy, green notes like vetiver, moss, or galbanum with zesty, refreshing citrus elements like lemon, yuzu, or grapefruit. The blend of grounding earthiness and energizing citrus creates a unique balance that is both earthy and uplifting.
Medicinal and Creamy:
This combination marries medicinal, herbal notes such as eucalyptus, camphor, or tea tree with creamy, smooth elements like coconut, tonka bean, or milk. This pairing creates a soothing and comforting scent that can feel both healing and indulgent.
Leathery and Green:
This pairing blends leathery, animalic notes like suede, leather, or castoreum with fresh, green elements like fig leaf, ivy, or grass. The contrast between the rich, deep aspects of leather and the vibrant, refreshing qualities of green notes creates a bold and distinctive fragrance.
These unconventional scent combinations demonstrate the limitless possibilities in perfumery. At Bath Perfumery we are constantly pushing boundaries and experimenting with unique and unexpected pairings to create innovative and memorable fragrances
The Rich and Fragrant History of Perfume:
Perfumes have played a significant role in human culture for thousands of years, from religious ceremonies and personal grooming to expressions of individuality and luxury.
Ancient Egypt (3000 BC – 1000 BC): The ancient Egyptians were among the first to develop the art of perfumery, using fragrances in religious ceremonies, daily life, and the afterlife. Egyptians believed that pleasant scents were pleasing to the gods and an essential element of worship. Perfumes were also used to mask unpleasant odours and as a form of personal hygiene. Early Egyptian perfumes were primarily oil-based and made from a variety of aromatic ingredients, such as myrrh, frankincense, and cinnamon. These ingredients were often infused in oil, creating a rich and luxurious scent that was reserved for the elite. Nobles were buried with perfume containers and recipes, signifying the importance of fragrance in Egyptian culture.
The Greeks and Romans (500 BC – 500 AD): The Greeks and Romans expanded upon the foundations laid by the Egyptians, developing new techniques and ingredients for perfumery. Greek perfumers were the first to use alcohol as a base, creating lighter, more delicate scents than the oil-based Egyptian fragrances. The Greeks also placed great importance on personal hygiene and used fragrances to mask the odors of daily life.
The Romans, on the other hand, were known for their love of luxury and embraced more opulent fragrances. They incorporated exotic ingredients such as saffron, cardamom, and jasmine into their perfumes. The expansion of trade routes during this time allowed for greater access to new and exotic ingredients, enabling the development of more complex and sophisticated scents.
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The Greeks and Romans (500 BC – 500 AD): The Greeks and Romans expanded upon the foundations laid by the Egyptians, developing new techniques and ingredients for perfumery. Greek perfumers were the first to use alcohol as a base, creating lighter, more delicate scents than the oil-based Egyptian fragrances. The Greeks also placed great importance on personal hygiene and used fragrances to mask the odors of daily life.
The Romans, on the other hand, were known for their love of luxury and embraced more opulent fragrances. They incorporated exotic ingredients such as saffron, cardamom, and jasmine into their perfumes. The expansion of trade routes during this time allowed for greater access to new and exotic ingredients, enabling the development of more complex and sophisticated scents.
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The Renaissance (14th – 17th centuries): The Renaissance period marked a renewed interest in the arts, including perfumery. Italy emerged as the centre of European perfume production, with Venice serving as a major trade hub for exotic ingredients. The art of perfumery flourished in this environment, and fragrances became more diverse and intricate. Market trends during the Renaissance saw a shift toward lighter, fresher fragrances, featuring floral and citrus notes. The use of scented gloves and fans also became popular, reflecting the increased importance of fragrance in daily life.
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The 18th and 19th Centuries: The 18th and 19th centuries witnessed the rise of modern perfumery, as synthetic ingredients and improved extraction techniques revolutionized the industry. These advancements allowed for greater creativity in fragrance composition and facilitated the creation of more affordable perfumes for a wider audience. Iconic scents such as Eau de Cologne emerged during this period, reflecting the market trend toward lighter, fresher fragrances. It was during this time that France, particularly Grasse, became the epicentre of the perfume industry,
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The 20th and 21st Centuries: The modern era of perfumery has been characterized by a focus on individuality and self-expression, resulting in a wide array of scents and styles to suit every taste. Market trends have fluctuated over the years, with bold, powerful scents dominating the 1980s, while lighter, more minimalist fragrances gained traction in the 1990s and 2000s.
Niche perfumery has also gained popularity in recent years, with consumers seeking out unique, artisanal scents that set them apart from the mainstream. This has led to a resurgence of interest in natural ingredients and a growing appreciation for unconventional fragrance combinations.
In summary, the popularity of different scents and smells throughout history has evolved in response to cultural, religious, and social influences, as well as advances in perfumery techniques and the availability of new ingredients. From the rich, exotic aromas of ancient Egypt to the vast array of modern fragrances, the world of perfume continues to captivate and inspire.
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The popularity of different scents and smells throughout history has evolved in response to cultural, religious, and social influences, as well as advances in perfumery techniques and the availability of new ingredients. From the rich, exotic aromas of ancient Egypt to the vast array of modern fragrances, the world of perfume continues to captivate and inspire.
Bath's Roman history is an essential aspect of the city's identity and for a source of inspiration for scent creation at Bath Perfumery.
Cypress, Juniper, and Myrrh: Cypress and juniper were popular aromatic ingredients in ancient Rome, symbolizing protection and purification. Myrrh adds a resinous, slightly sweet note, creating a balanced and evocative scent reminiscent of the Roman era. Rose, Cinnamon, and Labdanum: Rose was a highly valued scent in ancient Rome, representing luxury and opulence. Cinnamon adds a warm, spicy touch, while labdanum provides a resinous, oriental base, reflecting the exotic trade routes and connections of the Roman Empire. Violet, Coriander, and Spikenard: Violet was a favourite floral scent in ancient Rome and can be paired with the spicy, slightly citrusy note of coriander. Spikenard, a rare and precious ingredient in Roman perfumery, adds depth and complexity to the fragrance. Saffron, Frankincense, and Cedarwood: Saffron, a luxurious and expensive ingredient in ancient Roman perfumes, imparts a warm, earthy, and slightly sweet note. Frankincense adds a resinous, incense-like quality, while cedarwood contributes a woody, grounding base, evoking the opulence and grandeur of Roman society.
By integrating the Roman period and its influence on Bath into our scent combinations, we create a unique and engaging experience for clients showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of the city.
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Jane Austen and Beau Nash perfumes.
Bath Perfumery scent combinations inspired by Jane Austen and Beau Nash, reflecting their personalities, tastes, and the time period in which they lived:
Considering Jane Austen's literary works and her portrayal of the English countryside, a scent combination that captures both her romantic and pragmatic nature would be fitting.
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Rose: A classic and timeless floral note, representing the beauty and elegance of Austen's novels and the English gardens often featured in her stories.
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Bergamot: A refreshing and uplifting citrus note, symbolizing the wit and humour present in Austen's works.
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Sandalwood: A warm and woody base note, adding depth and sophistication, which mirrors the complexity of Austen's characters and plots.
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Green Tea: A delicate and comforting note, capturing the essence of the English countryside and the calm, everyday life depicted in Austen's novels.
Beau Nash, the celebrated dandy and Master of Ceremonies in Bath, was known for his charm, charisma, and refined tastes. A scent that captures the spirit of the Georgian era's high society and Nash's flamboyant personality would be suitable.
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Lavender: A fresh and herbaceous note, popular during the Georgian era, and reminiscent of the English countryside surrounding Bath.
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Orange Blossom: A bright and uplifting floral note, representing Nash's lively and sociable nature as well as the fashionable citrus scents of the time.
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Patchouli: An earthy and slightly sweet note, adding an exotic and luxurious touch, reflecting Nash's opulent lifestyle and the influence of international trade during the Georgian era.
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Amber: A warm and sensual base note, symbolizing the glamour and sophistication of Georgian high society and the lavish parties and events that Nash orchestrated.
These scent combinations inspired by Jane Austen and Beau Nash evoke the essence of their personalities and the Georgian era in which they lived, creating a unique connection to Bath's history and culture.
A marriage between the time-honoured British tradition of niche perfume makers and the revered savoir-faire of French perfumery, specific to Grasse, the veritable cradle of perfumery
Exploration and Fusion: an exciting exploration of international scents, blending British and French perfume-making styles.
In our perpetual pursuit of the quintessential olfactory artistry, we are delighted to unveil an extraordinary symphony of scent that is born of a marriage between the time-honoured British tradition and the revered savoir-faire of French perfumery, specific to Grasse, the veritable cradle of perfumery
As firm proponents of authenticity and unrivalled quality, we have traversed the verdant, aromatic expanses of Grasse to personally select the most luxurious essential oils. Grasse, renowned for its unparalleled excellence in perfume ingredients, provides a floral palette of unparalled diversity and richness.
Journey through an olfactory landscape that marries the refined Georgian architecture of Bath with the verdant, sun-drenched fields of Grasse. This exclusive, limited-edition fragrance stands as an homage to the diverse beauty of two historic centres of perfumery, illustrating our dedication to delivering the most exquisite scent experiences to our discerning clientele.
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The South of France and particularly the town of Grasse have a rich history in perfume making.
The town is known as the perfume capital of the world. It's a beautiful medieval town located in the Alpes-Maritimes department, part of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. The art of perfumery in Grasse dates back to the 16th century. The town's unique microclimate, its proximity to flower fields, and its knowledge of plants, distillation, and tinctures all played a role in establishing its reputation. The fragrance industry here was initially associated with the glove-making industry. Leather gloves were perfumed to mask the smell of the leather, which wasn't always pleasant. Over time, however, the perfume industry began to flourish independently. The region around Grasse is particularly well-suited to flower farming and, for centuries, jasmine has been a signature of Grasse perfumery. Other significant flowers include the May rose, lavender, tuberose, and mimosa. These flowers were (and still are) used in the extraction of essential oils for perfumes.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Grasse was the centre of the French perfume industry, producing many of the scents that became famous worldwide. It was during this period that some of the oldest perfume houses were established, including Fragonard, Molinard, and Galimard. These houses are still active today, producing perfumes using traditional methods. The 20th century brought changes and challenges to Grasse with the development of synthetic fragrances reduced the demand for natural ingredients. However, the town managed to preserve its traditional methods and expertise as well as becoming the leader in advanced manufacturing techniques and synthetics together with being the world centre of education and excellence in the perfume industry.
In 2018, the know-how related to perfume in Grasse was added to the UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The UNESCO designation highlighted three different aspects: the cultivation of perfume plants, the knowledge and processing of natural raw materials, and the art of composing the fragrance. Today, you can visit Grasse to explore the perfume museums, take workshops, and visit the perfume factories. The International Perfume Museum (Musée International de la Parfumerie) is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of perfumery.
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"Perfume, much like a personal signature, tells more about an individual than their handwriting".
"It's the final, invisible touch to one's style, encapsulating an identity. This unseeable yet indispensable accessory brings forth an elegance that subtly underscores one's persona, making the wearer unforgettable. Perfume is a powerful cocktail of memories and emotions, carrying whispers of experiences that linger in the heart. Each scent is a form of writing, a mark made in the first person, a courteous gesture that is part of every moment. Perfumery is a subtle dance of seduction, where a scent unfolds its nuances gradually. As each fragrance is crafted, it's understood that the essence always stays with the creator. This is the beauty, the art, the allure of perfume – invisible, yet undeniably impactful."
Striking the right note!
At Bath Perfumery, perfume is much more than a simple combination of pleasant scents. It is an olfactory symphony composed of intricate layers, or 'notes,' each playing a crucial part in the fragrance's overall impression and development over time. The concept of top notes, middle (or heart) notes, and base (or bottom) notes is fundamental to understanding, designing, and appreciating the art of perfume. Top notes, also known as head notes, top notes are the initial fragrances you perceive upon application of the perfume. These are usually light, volatile scents that evaporate quickly, typically within 5 to 15 minutes. The purpose of top notes is to give the first impression of the perfume, and they often include fresh, sharp scents like citrus, light fruits, and herbs. For example, bergamot, grapefruit, and peppermint are commonly used top notes.
Middle Notes - once the top notes have dissipated, the heart notes, or middle notes, start to emerge. These notes form the core of the perfume and are usually well-rounded and fuller than top notes. They are intended to mask the initial impression of base notes, which might lack zest at first but become more enjoyable over time. Middle notes generally last from 20 minutes to 1 hour after application and may include floral or spice scents like rose, jasmine, or cinnamon. Base Notes - lastly, base or bottom notes are the ones that last the longest, providing the perfume with depth and solidifying its impression. These are rich, deep scents that are perceived for hours after the top and middle notes have evaporated. Common base notes include musk, vanilla, sandalwood, and amber. They're crucial in anchoring the fragrance and making it linger on the skin. The perfume industry borrowed the concept of 'notes' from the field of music, where the term is used to distinguish different phases of a sound. Just as a melody is formed by a progression of different notes, a perfume's unique identity is crafted by the careful orchestration of various olfactory notes. Moreover, the mastery of perfume notes is essential to creating a harmonious blend that evolves from an initial impression to a lingering memory. It requires a keen understanding of how scents interact with each other and the wearer's unique body chemistry. Therefore, the selection, balance, and orchestration of top, middle, and base notes form the fundamental craft of creating fine perfumes.
At Bath Perfumery, perfume is much more than a simple combination of pleasant scents. It is an olfactory symphony composed of intricate layers, or 'notes,' each playing a crucial part in the fragrance's overall impression and development over time.