Grasse is registered in the intangible heritage of UNESCO in 2018. This city is world famous for its perfume know-how. For centuries, it has been a leader in thedevelopment of quality fragrances. Located in the south-east of France, Grasse has all the conditions to allow the cultivation of a wide variety of aromatic plants. The scents from this city are currently used for the creation of perfumes, cosmetics and also scented candles.
A rigorous manufacturing process closely linked to the history of the city of Grasse
Resulting from an ancestral know-how, the perfumes of Grasse are the result of a long process.
Its manufacture requiresvery strict specifications. And it is precisely for this reason that their scents are of high quality. The history of the city begins in the 7th century when it was still known for leather tanning. It was an activity that produced a strong, persistent, foul odor. Some craftsmen then began to use flower perfumes to alleviate the stench.
The production of scented water has therefore gradually developed into a real industry. The cultivation of aromatic plants has multiplied. Other types of imported plants have been added to this list. The peasants gradually became composers, sharp noses and specialists. Perfumery became a full-fledged activity in the city from the 17th century onwards.
Grasse, the world’s perfume capital
The world’s greatest perfumers were all born in the city of Grasse. There are among others Fragonard, Gallimard and Chiris. This is where they started their art and shared their know-how. Currently, this region has nearly 64 companies with over 4600 employees . They generate nearly 10% of the world’s turnover in the field of scents and flavors. Many museums, one of which is international, have been built to tell the history of the city and perfumes.
Also, faced with the growing world competition and the arrival of synthetic perfumes, the perfumers of Grasse have always been used to working in cooperatives. This is the best way to preserve their tradition and their unique know-how. It is also a part of this history that we try to transmit through our collections of room spray and stick diffusers elaborated with the perfumes of Grasse.
Cultivation of perfume plants
The first step in the manufacture of perfumes begins with the cultivation of aromatic plants. These represent the raw material, the main ingredient of the fragrances. The cultivation of olive trees, roses and jasmines is spread over many hectares in the Grasse region. We also find the orange tree, lavender or myrtle.
All this is possible thanks to competent producers, fertile soil and a climate that is favorable to the cultivation of several types of plants.
Côté Bougie provides consumers with scented candles made with fragrances from Grasse. Different scents are offered through our many collections. There are, among others, citrus, oriental and floral fragrances. They are known to be natural and environmentally friendly. This is also true for our waxes and wicks .
Scents of Morocco Fleur d'oranger
Tamegroute vert
Transformations and compositions of the picked flowers
The second step consists of extracting the aromatic molecules present in the picked plants. The technique can vary from one company to another. Some use artisanal methods while others prefer to use industrial means. A steam distillation or alcohol distillation is often the most practiced to collect the fragrant essences of flowers.
Trained noses are then used to select and blend the best raw materials. This is done by setting up an olfactory pyramid. In other words, they proceed to theelaboration of an olfactory architecture of a well defined composition. The top and bottom notes must be arranged to achieve balance and the desired scent.
