Bergamot is the sparkling soul of classic perfumery, a citrus fruit grown mainly in Calabria, Italy, whose peel oil smells bright, slightly bitter and green with a distinctive floral lift. It is the defining note of eau de cologne and the opening sparkle in countless chypres, fougeres and fresh orientals. Creed's Aventus famously opens with a bold bergamot blast that sets its confident tone. The catch is that bergamot oil is highly volatile, it dazzles for the first hour then fades, which is why perfumers anchor it with woods and musks. In Indian summers, bergamot is pure joy, its effervescent freshness cuts through heat and humidity like a cold drink. Just remember it fades fast in high temperatures, so enjoy the brilliant opening while it lasts.