The Scent of Winter

We speak to perfumer Alberto Morillas on his latest creation – Bulgari Man Glacial Essence

WHEN WE MET ALBERTO MORILLAS in London back in 2018, we were immediately charmed by his warm personality. The 70-year-old perfumer had a worldly wisdom about him and showed a keen interest in discourses about life. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to meet Morillas again this year for the launch of Bulgari Man Glacial Essence on account of the pandemic, but we did enjoy the virtual interview he gave, in which he talked about the fragrance and more.

What has kept you interested in working with Bulgari all these years?

Bulgari always has a story to tell, and I feel like my work with the brand illustrates how it is possible to transcend cultures and generations together. It’s always interesting.

What is the story behind Glacial Essence?

I was inspired by the top of a mountain, where the wind blows over a magnificent landscape of immaculate white and wide spaces, and I wanted to create something that represents the Bulgari Man’s quest to achieve greatness and surpass himself.

What unique personality traits do you imagine the Glacial Essence wearer to possess?

I imagine a free, determined man who seeks both challenge and inner exaltation as the wearer of this scent.

The fragrance manages to live up to its name – it’s glacial and icy – without resorting to minty accords. How did you manage to do that?

I worked on the scent’s freshness aspect ‒ one that is both sparkling and spicy. This was done by fusing the notes of ginger together with the refreshing gin-like accents of juniper. The orris and sandalwood notes are then built into the heart of the aromatic idea. Together they deliver a velvety and herbaceous scent. Finally there is artemisia, which gives the scent a unique effect akin to a blast of cold wind.

COVID-19 has plunged the world into a miserable state of affairs. Is there a positive message that you would like to share through Glacial Essence?

This fragrance is inspired by the highest peaks in the world. It captures the idea of the freshest, purest, and most essential breath of air that fuels our determination to press on and reach towards greatness. It possesses a true and perceptible force that everyone needs during these extraordinarily difficult times. I think Bulgari Man Glacial Essence is the boost of energy and positivity that will help every one of us reconnect with our immense inner strength. AM