Les Privés 104: Green Orange, Hyacinth & Ivy

104 reveals a nuanced trail reminiscent of a walk through mossy woodland. The fragrance opens on spicy citrus notes before giving way to subtle hints of jasmine and hyacinth, pierced by an aquatic accord. Like a perfect cadence, this exceptional harmony ends on a distinguished base of patchouli, amber and vetiver. A rich green floral that evokes aquatic and woody notes. PS: Bourbon vetiver (from Madagascar) is considered to be the finest variety. It is also what makes 104 so amazing.

What is green orange?

Green orange is a citrus fruit and is actually identical to the orange-skinned kind. Oranges stay green in temperatures of around 30°C (86°F). This is because they produce chlorophyll, which leaves no room for the orange color. Their scents are obviously different. The green fruit presents a mixture of sweet, fresh and bright notes that are both sharp and bitter, while the orange one imparts a “juicier” dimension to the scent. Green orange is less frequently used in perfumery, which is why we showcase it in our creations. It gives the fragrance a unique quality. 

What is hyacinth?

This very fragrant flower is always a welcome smell in our homes as it marks the end of winter. In perfumery, it enhances the green and botanical facets of this creation by contributing its floral touch. It also makes an excellent fixative, helping to make more volatile notes last longer. Solvent extraction is possible but generally speaking perfumers use an accord to recreate the scent of this plant. Striking the right balance is a real art; too much of it and it can soon assault the nostrils!

What is ivy?

Perhaps you’ve noticed this plant in 104’s olfactory pyramid? It’s no mistake! Ivy is definitely uncommon, but that is what makes it so original. It boasts pure and very botanical green notes with aromatic accents. It has a scent recalling crumpled leaves. Ivy grows in Europe, Asia and North Africa. Its odor can be extracted by distillation, but perfumers also use ivy in the form of an accord, where several ingredients are combined. Thanks to this method, they recreate the olfactory essence of the plant.

Notes: green orange, bitter orange, hyacinth, ivy, galbanum, mastic, cardamom, hyacinth, jasmine, aquatic, patchouli, amber, vetiver