What does the word almond mean?
The word "almond" comes from the Latin "amandula," which in turn derives from the ancient Greek "amygdalē." The etymology of the word is linked to the shape of the almond seed, which is oval and reminiscent of the amygdala, a joint structure located in the heart of the cerebral cortex, which is almond-shaped.
In the beginning…
The history of almonds dates back over 4,000 years. The first records of almonds date back to ancient Egypt, where they were considered a sacred food. The ancient Greeks believed almonds had aphrodisiac properties and often consumed them before weddings.
In the Middle Ages, almonds were a favorite ingredient in many dishes. French croissants are even known for their half-moon shape, reminiscent of almonds. In the following centuries, almonds became a popular ingredient in beauty products and perfumes due to their delicate fragrance and skin-nourishing properties.
DID YOU KNOW? Almonds are often used as a milk substitute for people with lactose allergies or intolerances. Almond milk is made by grinding almonds and mixing them with water, then straining the resulting mixture. It has become popular as a vegan alternative to cow's milk.
Almond cultivation
The almond tree grows primarily in regions with a Mediterranean climate, such as the Middle East, the Mediterranean region, California, and parts of Australia. It requires a warm, sunny climate, deep, well-drained soil, and regular irrigation.
During its first few years, the almond tree focuses on establishing its roots and developing a strong structure. Regular watering and fertilizer help promote healthy growth. When the almond tree reaches maturity, it enters the productive phase, with the formation of flowers in spring, followed by pollination and fruiting.
Almond harvest time occurs in late summer or early fall, when the fruits are ripe. This often corresponds to the time when the outer shell of the almond begins to crack or dry out. Harvesting generally takes place when the almonds are still attached to the tree but are ripe enough to be easily detached.
What did you know about almonds in perfumery?
In perfumery, almonds are often recreated from synthetic molecules. This is due to the high cost of producing real almond essential oil and the greater stability and longevity of synthetic molecules.
These molecules are created by perfume chemists using organic synthesis techniques. The most commonly used synthetic molecule to recreate the scent of almonds in perfumery is benzyl acetate. This synthetic molecule is designed to reproduce the specific olfactory notes of almonds, whether sweet and sugary or bitter. Perfume chemists adjust concentrations and combine different compounds to create almond accords that match the perfumer's intention.
In perfumery, almond is valued for its sweet, mild, and slightly bitter note. It can be used as the main note in pure almond-based perfumes, or as a middle or base note to enrich other olfactory accords. Almond blends well with a variety of other ingredients, allowing for a wide range of fragrance compositions. Here is a non-exhaustive list of possible olfactory accords with almond:
• Almond-vanilla pairing: Sweet almond is often combined with vanilla to create a delicious and comforting pairing. The sweet and creamy notes of vanilla complement the almond, adding a warm and delicious dimension to the composition .
• Almond-orange blossom accord: The combination of almond and orange blossom creates a sweet and sunny floral accord. The delicate floral notes of orange blossom blend harmoniously with the sweetness of almond, creating a refined and elegant fragrance.
• Almond-cherry accord: Almond combined with cherry offers a fruity and delicious accord. The juicy and sweet notes of cherry blend with the sweet and slightly bitter nuances of almond, creating a seductive and irresistible combination.
• Almond-bergamot accord: The combination of almond and bergamot creates a fresh and sparkling accord. The citrusy and aromatic notes of bergamot blend with the sweetness of almond, creating a balance between freshness and warmth.
• Almond-cedar accord: Almond combined with cedar creates a warm, woody accord. The woody, resinous notes of cedar blend with the soft, velvety nuances of almond, creating an olfactory composition that is both sensual and enveloping.
GOOD TO KNOW!
Almonds are a versatile and beneficial ingredient widely used in various fields. In cooking, almonds are prized for their rich flavor and crunchy texture, used in snacks, baked goods, salads, and even to produce almond milk. In personal care, sweet almond oil is prized for its moisturizing and skin-soothing properties, while almonds are used in cosmetics to create perfumes and body care products. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, almonds are also beneficial for health, strengthening bones, supporting the immune system, and helping to prevent chronic diseases!
Some well-known almond flavors...
For those looking to explore almond-based flavors, there are several popular choices on the market:
• Acqua di Parma's Mandorlo di Sicilia Eau de Parfum , launched in 1999, is a fragrance for men and women that combines notes of almond, orange, bergamot and vanilla.
• Prada's Almond Infusion skillfully blends familiar almond with intense tonka bean, delivering a fragrance that is both retro and modern. The top notes reveal sweet almond, while the base notes linger with captivating tonka bean. A harmonious blend that seduces with its gourmand sweetness and sensual depth .
• L'Occitane's L'Amande mist is also a popular choice for its fresh, floral scent, with notes of bergamot, freesia, and musk. Finally, it's important to note that almond is also used in men's fragrances .
• Guerlain's La Petite Robe Noire is an iconic eau de parfum that showcases the almond note with a touch of modernity and audacity. In this fragrance, bitter almond is enhanced by notes of black cherry, licorice, and vanilla, creating an irresistible combination of indulgence and sensuality.
• L' Artisan Parfumeur 's Amande Absolue fragrance is a men's eau de toilette that delicately captures the purity and richness of almond. This fragrance envelops the senses with a sweet and creamy almond note, evoking the image of a delicious, indulgent dessert. The almond is enhanced by accords of vanilla and tonka, adding a sensual warmth and delicious depth to the fragrance.
Bon Parfumeur almond fragrances
Bon Parfumeur is a French company offering a wide range of fragrance products guaranteed to be 100% made in France. We also offer a selection of almond-based products designed just for you! You'll find:
• Eau de parfum 402 with vanilla, caramel and sandalwood. A millefeuille of vanilla, caramel and wood. The almond blossom enhances the vanilla and caramel with its powdery and floral facets. The sandalwood, sweet and milky, warms this fragrance. A terribly addictive scent on the skin.
• 901 Eau de Parfum with nutmeg, almond, and patchouli. A shot of energy and spice. Ginger awakens the first fresh notes of grapefruit. Nutmeg and black pepper add spice, while almond reveals its sweetness and opens the transition to suave, vanilla facets. Patchouli and musk leave sensual scents on the skin.
Now that you know all about almonds in perfumery, don't hesitate to visit our website or come and meet us in store!
