NOVEMBER 18, 2024

In the realm of Italian luxury, we often think of high fashion, exquisite wines, and gourmet cuisine. Yet, tucked away in the southern region of Calabria lies a hidden gem that has left its mark on the world of fragrance and flavor: bergamot. This humble citrus fruit, with its complex and invigorating aroma, plays a starring role in perfumes, teas, and refined recipes. But at the heart of its charm lies an ancient practice—bergamot extraction. This is a craft that embodies the essence of Italian elegance, where centuries-old traditions meet the natural beauty of this Mediterranean fruit. 

Bergamot grows almost exclusively in Calabria, where the warm, sun-kissed hills provide the perfect conditions for the fruit to thrive. Its rich soil and coastal breezes have made this region the ideal home for bergamot trees, which flourish here more than anywhere else in the world. Over 90% of the world’s bergamot comes from this narrow stretch of Italy, where the fruit has been grown and harvested since the 17th century. While its exact origin remains a mystery, some believe bergamot is a cross between bitter orange and lemon. Its name, it is said, comes from the town of Bergamo, where its precious oil was first sold in Italian markets. 

The process of extracting bergamot oil is an art form in itself, passed down through generations. It is a delicate and painstaking task, traditionally done by hand. In the past, artisans used the method known as sfumatura a mano, a laborious process where the fruit's peel was carefully pressed by hand to release the essential oils. Although modern techniques have made this process more efficient, some Calabrian craftsmen still practice the old ways, preserving the purity and integrity of the oil they produce. 

It all begins with the harvest, which takes place between November and February. At just the right moment, when the fruit is ripe but not overripe, the bergamot is handpicked from the trees. The essence of bergamot is held within the peel, so each piece of fruit is handled with care, ensuring none of the valuable oil is lost. After harvesting, it undergoes a cold-pressing process known as pelatrice, pressing the peel without using heat, to preserve the full fragrance and chemical structure of the oil. The resulting liquid is then filtered, leaving behind a pure, golden-green oil with a crisp, citrusy fragrance that evokes the freshness of the Calabrian landscape. 

Bergamot oil is often best known for its role in the world of perfumery. Its bright and uplifting scent has made it a favorite of perfumers for centuries, serving as a key ingredient in iconic fragrances like Eau de Cologne. Its versatility lies in its ability to harmonize with other notes, adding both warmth and depth to perfumes. In Italy, the art of perfumery has long celebrated bergamot, with many luxury houses still sourcing their oils directly from Calabria. The citrusy, slightly floral fragrance of bergamot brings a sense of brightness and sophistication to any scent it touches, making it a timeless ingredient in high-end perfumes. 

But the appeal of bergamot reaches beyond the world of fragrance. In Italian cuisine, the fruit’s zest and juice are prized for their unique, slightly bitter flavor. Bergamot is perhaps best known internationally for its role in Earl Grey tea, where the oil is used to flavor the black tea leaves, giving them their signature taste. Closer to home in Calabria, bergamot is used in everything from marmalades to liqueurs. Its sharp citrus notes add complexity to desserts, sauces, and even savory dishes, particularly those featuring seafood. 

Bergamot remains firmly rooted in Calabria, where the practice of cultivation and extraction is both an art and a livelihood. The fruit’s Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status ensures that only bergamot grown in this region can carry the name "Calabrian Bergamot," preserving the integrity and heritage of this ancient craft. The renewed appreciation for artisanal products has brought attention back to this quiet corner of Italy, where farmers and artisans work tirelessly to protect their traditions. 

The practice of bergamot extraction is a reminder of what makes Italian craftsmanship so revered around the world. It is a celebration of nature and human skill, where every drop of oil reflects the care and passion of those who produce it. From the fragrant groves of southern Italy to the bottles of luxury perfumes and gourmet kitchens across the globe, bergamot is a timeless symbol of Italian elegance. Its fragrance, its flavor, and its history all speak to the Italian way of life—where beauty, tradition, and quality are valued above all. 

So next time you enjoy the crisp scent of a fine perfume or savor a cup of Earl Grey tea, take a moment to appreciate the journey of bergamot. This little fruit, nurtured by the sun and soil of Calabria, carries centuries of Italian artistry, a fragrant reminder of a world where nature and craftsmanship come together in perfect harmony.