Tubereuse by Guerlain c1833

Launched in 1833, Guerlain's Tubereuse captures the essence of one of the most opulent and exotic flowers of its time. The name Tubereuse is derived from the French word for "tuberose," a flowering plant renowned for its intensely fragrant blossoms. This choice of name underscores the perfume's focus on the tuberose flower, which was celebrated for its rich, creamy scent and its association with luxury and sensuality.

In French, Tubereuse translates directly to "tuberose," a flower that evokes a sense of sophistication and allure. The tuberose's fragrance is known for its heady, voluptuous aroma, which combines notes of sweetness and spice, making it both captivating and enigmatic. The word itself conjures images of lush, tropical gardens and evening strolls under the moonlight, where the tuberose's intoxicating scent fills the air. It suggests a fragrance that is bold, assertive, and deeply evocative, embodying the very essence of the flower's luxurious and seductive qualities.

For women in the early 19th century, the name Tubereuse would have been particularly resonant. During this period, the appreciation for exotic and rare scents was growing, as the Romantic era's fascination with nature and the allure of the unfamiliar were coming to the forefront. The tuberose, with its complex and heady scent profile, would have been seen as a symbol of elegance and refinement. A perfume named Tubereuse would likely be regarded as a statement of sophistication, appealing to those who sought to embrace the exotic and the opulent in their personal fragrance. The perfume would have been associated with high social standing and an appreciation for the finer things in life, reflecting a period of burgeoning interest in luxury and individuality in the realm of personal scent.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It was classified as a floral fragrance for women. Various tuberose perfume formulas of the 19th century have the following in their compositions:

• Top notes: orange blossom, neroli, bitter almond
• Middle notes: tuberose, rose, jasmine
• Base notes: vanilla, orris, civet, musk

Scent Profile:

Imagine yourself enveloped in the exquisite olfactory journey of a classic 19th-century tuberose perfume, where each note weaves a story of floral opulence and subtle complexity.

As the fragrance unfolds, the top notes greet you with a radiant burst of orange blossom and neroli. The orange blossom exudes a sweet, slightly honeyed aroma, reminiscent of sunlit gardens in full bloom, while the neroli adds a delicate, fresh citrus nuance that invigorates the senses. As the initial burst settles, a hint of bitter almond emerges, introducing a nutty, slightly bitter undertone that provides a grounding contrast to the effervescent florals.

Transitioning to the heart of the fragrance, the middle notes reveal the rich, intoxicating scent of tuberose. This note, known for its heady and creamy floral quality, envelops you in its opulent, almost decadent aroma. Accompanying the tuberose is the lush scent of rose, which adds a timeless, romantic sweetness, blending seamlessly with the tuberose’s richness. The inclusion of jasmine enhances this floral bouquet with its warm, sensual, and slightly fruity undertone, creating a harmonious and voluptuous middle layer that speaks to the fragrance’s sophistication and depth.

As the perfume evolves, the base notes provide a comforting and enduring finish. The warm, creamy essence of vanilla envelopes the wearer with its sweet, soothing quality, lending a touch of gourmand indulgence. Orris adds a powdery, elegant nuance, enhancing the perfume’s overall refinement with its soft, velvety texture. The civet, with its animalic, musky quality, introduces a hint of sensuality and depth, while musk rounds out the base with a subtle, warm resonance, ensuring the fragrance’s lasting presence and depth.

Together, these notes create a tapestry of scent that is both lush and refined, capturing the essence of a bygone era’s floral elegance and sophistication.

Bottles:

Presented in the carre flacon. 

Fate of the Fragrance:

Discontinued, date unknown.