Vaux-le-Vicomte (pronounced voh-luh-vee-KANT), a château built outside of the monarchy, was one of the main sources of inspiration for the architecture and gardens of Versailles. The artists originally hired to design the environs of Vaux-le-Vicomte would later be employed by the king and go on to design a lot of celebrated landscapes and architecture in France. Beyond the enduring beauty of its landscapes and interiors, the château has an extra special charm around the holidays — each room adorned with themed Christmas trees, glowing lights, crackling fires, and occasionally resonating with traditional French carols in the grand salon. This chateau in particular is one of my personal favorites, and no matter the season, I always return to the memories of the Noël grandeur. I set out to design a fragrance that would capture the spirit of the holidays, but still ruminate on the history and architecture of the property.
One main room in particular was always a decorated favorite; ornaments of snow and crystal adorned flocked evergreens while wintery animals strewn about painted a natural scene. Glittering chandeliers threw golden light on the gilded walls and warm, earthy smells emanated from the fireplaces. This memory became the guiding force behind a complex fragrance using plant-based essential oils and compounds that incorporates Indian coconut, Guatemalan cardamom, and Madagascar vanilla. More than a fragrance for the holidays, it’s a formula for moments when solace demands a comforting warmth and a hint of sweetness.
Come on a journey with us to the indulgent grandeur of Vaux-le-Vicomte as we share the familiar scents of a comforting warmth combined with gilded sophistication.
