The story of Bottega Veneta
Michele Taddei and Renzo Zengiaro founded Bottega Veneta in 1966 in Vicenza, in the Veneto. The workshop specialised in woven leather known as intrecciato. The brand made a point of having no logo and even turned that into an ad line. It joined the Gucci group in the early 2000s, now Kering. Fragrances arrived in the early 2010s under a Coty licence. Bottega Veneta pour Homme followed for men in 2013. In 2014 the Essence Aromatique line offered lighter takes, starting with the women's side. Pour Homme Essence Aromatique, its male counterpart, launched in 2016. Amandine Marie composed it.
An olfactory signature
Bottega Veneta likes legible materials and quiet luxury. Its fragrances often recall the leather of its workshops, soft and never animalic. Pour Homme Essence Aromatique goes another way. It is an eau de Cologne, which sets it apart from the rest of the men's range. Bergamot and citrus open onto a heart of Siberian pine and patchouli. Cedar closes it on a dry note. Think of a conifer forest after rain rather than a standard summer cologne.
Which Bottega Veneta perfume to choose?
Pour Homme Essence Aromatique suits men who find colognes too fleeting and woody scents too heavy. It works in spring and summer and fits the office easily. Wear time is cologne-like, so reapply at midday. If you want more depth, the original 2013 Bottega Veneta pour Homme is woodier. Spray the neck and inner wrists, up to three times if needed.