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composition’s freshness. On the other hand, when working with floral notes, ginger adds a touch of modernity and prevents them from feeling overly traditional. I also love pairing ginger with ambers to create a warm, sensual base. It brings balance and depth while maintaining a unisex appeal. PP : CAN YOU SHARE SOME ICONIC FRAGRANCES THAT SHOWCASE GINGER? SB : Absolutely! One of the earliest and most iconic fragrances highlighting ginger is Declaration by Cartier. Released in 1998, it marked a revival of spicy woods in perfumery. Ginger was paired with cardamom, cinnamon, and cedarwood to create a warm, bold scent. Another favourite of mine is Five O’Clock Au Gingembre by Serge Lutens. It’s dazzling in its contrast, with citrusy top notes and dark, syrupy undertones that evoke the cosy warmth of an afternoon tea. Lastly, there’s Aqua Allegoria Ginger Piccante by Guerlain. This fragrance showcases ginger’s spicy side while maintaining a sophisticated transparency. It pairs the note with floral nuances, creating a balanced, refined interpretation of ginger. These fragrances highlight how adaptable and multi-faceted ginger can be, each offering a unique perspective on its character. PP : BEYOND PERFUMERY, DOES GINGER HOLD A PERSONAL SIGNIFICANCE FOR YOU? SB : Yes, absolutely! I am a true ginger enthusiast—I might even call myself a ginger addict. (Laughs) I love candied ginger; it’s my guilty pleasure. I also use ginger a lot in my cooking because it adds an exotic touch to dishes. For me, ginger is deeply tied to my travels, which are a big part of my life. I’ve been fortunate to explore many countries where ginger is an integral part of the culture, from the vibrant markets of India to the delicate flavours of Japanese cuisine. Every time I use ginger, whether in a fragrance or a recipe, it takes me back to those experiences. It’s a raw material that feels personal and evocative, which is probably why I’m so drawn to it. PP : WHAT MAKES GINGER A “UNISEX” INGREDIENT IN YOUR EYES? SB : Ginger is inherently versatile, and it doesn’t lean too strongly toward either masculine or feminine. In spicy compositions, it pairs beautifully with wood and ambers, making it a natural fit for men’s fragrances. But when combined with florals or citrus, it becomes bright and elegant, which “Ginger is inherently versatile, and it doesn’t lean too strongly toward either masculine or feminine” ❚ SOFIA BARDELLI, PERFUMER, TECHNICOFLOR P A R F U M P L U S 14