Sofia Bardelli’s Ginger Odyssey
Technicoflor's perfumer, Sofia Bardelli talks about the beauty of Ginger and how it is a key ingredient of some fantastic perfumes
Ginger is one of the most fascinating raw materials in perfumery, prized for its duality of warmth and freshness. A perennial plant native to Asia, it has been revered for over 2,000 years for its curative properties and aromatic allure.
Transported from Asia to Ancient Egypt and later Rome, ginger was celebrated for its medicinal benefits and aphrodisiac qualities. By the Middle Ages, ginger had cemented its place in the realm of legends and myths, often associated with vitality and desire.
Today, it remains a staple in perfumery, finding its place in compositions ranging from spicy and woody masculine fragrances to vibrant citrus blends.
To uncover the secrets of this remarkable ingredient, we spoke with Sofia Bardelli, an accomplished perfumer at Technicoflor, who shared her insights into ginger’s versatility, its role in her creative process, and the memories that make it a personal favourite.
ParfumPlus : Ginger has a long and storied history. What makes it so special
in perfumery today?
Sofia Bardelli : Ginger is truly unique because of its complex and versatile profile. It’s not just one-dimensional; it combines spicy, pungent, and citrusy notes with a subtle pinkish floral nuance. This duality gives it both warmth and freshness, which makes it a favourite among perfumers. I love how it can be bold and invigorating while still carrying a certain elegance. Its ability to adapt to different compositions, whether spicy, citrus, floral, or woody, is what keeps it relevant and exciting in modern perfumery.
PP : What are the olfactory facets of ginger that you find most intriguing?
SB : Ginger is like a chameleon in the world of scents. It has this highly refined and beautifully aromatic rhizome. The spicy and pungent facets are immediately recognisable, but it also has a zingy citrus freshness that feels bright and uplifting. Beyond that, there’s a softer, almost pinkish floral nuance that adds an unexpected layer of sophistication. It’s these contrasting characteristics that make ginger so intriguing—it’s simultaneously warm and fresh, bold and delicate.
PP : How do you approach ginger in your creations? What materials do you like
to pair it with?
SB : Ginger is incredibly versatile, and I love ‘modelling’ it to suit the composition I’m working on. For instance, I often pair it with citrus notes like bergamot, lemon, or mandarin to enhance its sparkling, zesty qualities. Recently, I created a 'tea' note where ginger played a pivotal role in adding a fresh, spicy twist.
For more depth, I combine ginger with spicy notes like pink pepper and cardamom—it creates a vibrant synergy while reinforcing the 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 appeals to women. This balance allows ginger to transcend traditional gender boundaries. I think that’s one of its greatest strengths—it’s universal yet distinctive.
PP : How do you see the future of
ginger in perfumery?
SB : I think ginger will continue to be a beloved ingredient because of its versatility and timelessness. Perfumery is moving toward more dynamic and complex compositions and ginger’s ability to bring energy, depth and modernity makes it an essential component. As perfumers explore new ways to highlight its facets, I’m sure we’ll see even more innovative uses of ginger in the future.
In the hands of a skilled perfumer like Sofia Bardelli, ginger transforms from a humble rhizome into an olfactory masterpiece. Its ability to balance freshness with warmth, subtlety with boldness, and tradition with modernity ensures its place in the pantheon of perfumery’s most cherished ingredients.
Whether enhancing the zing of citrus, the spice of woods, or the elegance of florals, ginger’s dual nature continues to captivate and inspire. For Sofia, it’s more than just an ingredient—it’s a journey, a memory, and a creative muse.
