The upcoming fragrance will be released this summer, following the success of Highgrove Bouquet as the King’s second collaboration with the perfumer. I learned about the King’s passion for gardening from Grainne Ring, the head gardener at Highgrove Gardens, with whom I had a conversation amidst the fragrant gardens of the King’s residence near Tetbury in Gloucestershire.
Royal perfumers Penhaligon’s have invited me to witness the collaboration between the King and them on a new perfume inspired by the famous gardens. Ring emphasized the importance of scent in the gardens, where plants are chosen not only for their appearance but also for their fragrances to attract pollinating insects.
During my visit, a bumblebee landed on the sweet-smelling Daphne ‘Aureomarginata’, filling the air with its delightful scent. As we strolled through the garden, Ring explained the King’s dedication to creating a harmonious environment for both plants and wildlife. The gardens at Highgrove were in full bloom, with colorful flowers creating a picturesque scene under the clear blue sky.
Penhaligon’s, known for their prestigious history and commitment to sustainability, are the perfect partners for this royal collaboration. The Duke of Marlborough, Winston Churchill, and other notable figures have favored Penhaligon’s scents over the years. Their attention to detail, from recyclable packaging to eco-friendly practices, aligns with the King’s values and vision for the perfume.
Highgrove Bouquet, the King’s first fragrance with Penhaligon’s, aimed to capture the essence of the gardens in summer. With the success of this initial collaboration, the upcoming scent promises to be another olfactory journey inspired by the beauty and tranquility of the King’s gardens.
At Highgrove, the windows were opened to welcome the sweet aroma of the weeping silver lime trees that bordered the driveway. Aromatherapy expert Danièle Ryman, known for her work in aromacology, was invited by the King for the launch of his book, “Highgrove: A Garden Celebrated.” Ryman shared that lime tree blossom, also known as linden blossom, was a wise choice for its calming and uplifting qualities. The French often enjoy it as a soothing herbal tea in the evenings.
The Highgrove Bouquet Eau de Parfum featured hints of mimosa and a mossy green base, exuding a subtle yet elegant fragrance that required proximity to be appreciated. This refined approach to scent was common among fragrances favored by the Royal Family. For instance, the Princess of Wales was known to wear Jo Malone’s Orange Blossom Cologne, a delicate floral blend with vetiver and lily of the valley undertones, perfect for a subtle yet captivating aura.
Centuries ago, Queen Catherine of France was adorned in an orange blossom and citrus scent specially crafted for her wedding. The legacy of this fragrance lives on in Santa Maria Novella’s Acqua della Regina. Princess Diana’s preference for Penhaligon’s Bluebell reflected her affinity for light florals, capturing the essence of a blooming bluebell woodland with hyacinth and lily of the valley notes.
The late Queen’s choice of Guerlain’s L’Heure Bleue, infused with orange blossom and a powdery finish reminiscent of a vintage handbag’s suede interior, embodied a regal sophistication suitable for grand occasions. In contrast, Princess Anne’s signature scent, Hermes’s Caleche Eau de Parfum, exuded a timeless elegance with its iris-infused powderiness, staying with her throughout the day like a silk scarf.
As Ryman aptly put it, perfume serves as a form of communication, mirroring the politeness and understated grace often associated with royalty. These scents, refined and uplifting, echoed the essence of meeting the royals themselves.
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