Established in 1870, Penhaligon’s London specialises in high-end fragrances rooted in a sense of Englishness. For example, its latest scent, Iris Prima, created by Alberto Morillas, is inspired by English National Ballet. Nathalie Vinciguerra, head of fragrance development at Penhaligon’s talks to Cosmetics Business.
What is the creative process behind Penhaligon’s fragrances?We always try to go to the roots of our English heritage; that’s the story behind Iris Prima, with the English National Ballet, or Juniper Sling [inspired by London Dry Gin]. We work with master perfumers and we give them creative licence to develop the fragrance in any way they want, offering them the most amazing ingredients and the best quality extractions. This is the way we build fragrance at Penhaligon’s.
What is it like working with different master perfumers?Working with a master perfumer is a treat. Collaborating with Olivier Cresp on Juniper Sling was such an amazing exercise. I learnt so much from him about the whole process. And working with Alberto was another experience; I’d love to work with him again. Every perfumer has a different sensitivity and a different way of approaching his own formula, which makes the process very interesting and rich.