In the thick of winter, when the days are sadly too short and the nights long and cold, I often revel at the one cheery gift nature has given us during these trying times: citrus. Glowing globes of oranges, tiny seedless mandarins, bright and happy lemons and the rosy blushes of grapefruit make for a tiny reprieve from the rich and hearty meals that keep us warm and full. The fruits slice through the intensely flavored stews and soups and cheese (SO much cheese) that I consume during this time of year. I've been keeping piles of mandarins on my counter and feel a rush of serotonin when I peel them open--the zest spraying up and hitting my nose with that beautifully happy scent.
Bergamot is a note in perfumery that is included in many colognes and uplifting scents. A small citrus fruit native to Italy and easily mistaken for a lime (the taste is not something you'd mistake, however!), bergamots are prized for their insanely aromatic smell, the oil added to black tea to create Earl Grey, the scent added to countless fragrances you know and love.
Bergamot adds a citrus zest, an uplifting kick that brightens scents when they are needing that push to a fresher feel. Bergamot can help lift any fragrance types and is incredibly versatile in woody, spicy, herbal and floral perfumes and candles.