What does Amalfi Lemon smell like?
Amalfi lemon smells like freshly grated zest, with less sourness than an ordinary lemon. There is a near-candied sweetness and a floral hint. The thick peel adds a green bitterness, like crushed leaves. Like all citrus, it evaporates fast. On skin it rarely lasts more than an hour. Its job is to open the door.
Origin and production
Lemons from the Amalfi Coast, especially the sfusato variety, are grown on steep terraces in Campania. They carry a protected geographical indication as Limone Costa d'Amalfi. They also go into limoncello. Perfumers obtain the oil by cold-pressing the peel. In many perfumes, though, Amalfi lemon is more of a marketing image than a controlled origin.
How perfumers use it
Amalfi lemon brightens a top note and often calls for bergamot or neroli. Paco Rabanne Lady Million sets it over raspberry before a honeyed heart. Parfums de Marly Darley folds it into an amber fougère. Voyage d'Hermès uses it as a dry flash in the opening. Dior Escale aux Marquises, spicier, pairs it with pepper. L'Artisan Parfumeur Mûre et Musc matches it with blackberry.
How to wear it
Amalfi lemon is a summer note. Spray your hair or a scarf as well to stretch its life. Expect to reapply by midday.