As a student at the Fashion Institute of Technology, we had a class on the science of fragrances. Our professor asked each student to choose a natural product such as cinnamon sticks or rose petals and learn how to extract fragrant oil from those substances. My choice, however, was an etrog. I just couldn’t wait to capture the exquisite smell of a Sukkot citron in a bottle. 

Unfortunately, my experiments were unsuccessful in capturing the unique fragrance we associate with Sukkot. Fortunately, a bona fide fragrance company recently had the same idea – and executed it to perfection.

Carlos Huber is the creator of Arquiste Parfumeur, a collection of six fragrances designed to evoke particular times in history through the use of scent. There’s “flor y canto”, a fragrance inspired by an ancient Aztec festival and “Fleur de Louis”, invoking a moment in history with Louis XIV. But the most intriguing fragrance, especially at this time of year, is “L’Etrog” – a unisex citrusy green scent inspired by a Sukkot celebration in 12^th century Italy. The brand’s rich fragrance description tells a lavish story that touches the senses:

“In Medieval Calabria, a family gathers to celebrate a good harvest. Within a cabin built of Palm leaves and other woody branches, an aromatic bounty is presented. The citrusy scent of the Etrog citron, a regional specialty, brightens the air, while bracing Myrtle and lush Date fruit envelop the sweet warmth of the Mediterranean night.”

I sampled L’Etrog and it is a truly beautiful scent. The top note (the term for what the fragrance smells like at first) captivates the wearer with a burst of fresh and zesty etrog and crisp leafy myrtle (hadassah leaves). As the fragrance wears on the skin, the etrog note wanes (as do all citrus notes in any perfume) and a clean, subtle and slightly spicy scent remains. L’Etrog is a classic and fresh scent; a breezy citrus with understated elegance. 

In honor of Sukkot, Arquiste Parfumeur is sponsoring a very special giveaway of a full-size bottle of L’Etrog fragrance. To enter, “Like” Bellabusta on Facebook and post this on the Bellabusta Facebook wall by Thursday, October 27: “I want to win the Arquiste L’Etrog fragrance from Bellabusta!”  

Good luck to everyone and remember to savor the sweet smell of Sukkot!

(This article appeared in the Jewish Press column “Beauty and the Bellabusta”)