Discover the Royal Heritage of Grossmith: The Crown Jewel of Perfume
When it comes to the world of luxury fragrances, Grossmith stands as a paragon of excellence and historical significance. Founded in 1835 by John Grossmith in the City of London, Grossmith is one of England’s oldest and most prestigious perfume houses. Over the years, it has built a rich heritage deeply intertwined with British royalty, making it a revered name in the world of genuine luxury perfumes.
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CONTENTS
The Foundation of Grossmith
Innovation and Royal Patronage
Significant Milestones
The Revival
The Fragrances
THE FOUNDATION OF GROSSMITH
John Grossmith's vision was clear from the outset: to create perfumes that were not only unique but also of the highest quality. This commitment to excellence was carried forward by his son, John Lipscomb Grossmith, who expanded the company's reach and reputation. By the early 1900s, Grossmith's formula books contained over 300 different products, ranging from perfumes and essential oils to fine soaps and toiletries. This period marked Grossmith's transformation into a titan of the industry, rivalling even the most renowned French perfume houses with a factory in Grasse, the heart of the perfume world.
Innovation and Royal Patronage
Grossmith's innovative approach to perfumery involved creating rich and complex floral ambers, moving beyond the single floral notes popular at the time. This creative leap made Grossmith a pioneer in the industry, appealing to a sophisticated clientele who sought more than just a scent but an experience. This dedication to innovation and quality did not go unnoticed by the British royal family.
In 1891, a bottle of 'Phul Nana' was presented to Queen Alexandra, then Princess of Wales, marking the beginning of a long association with royalty. This royal connection was further solidified when King Edward VII was hosted in Grasse by John Grossmith in 1903. Throughout the years, Grossmith perfumes graced the royal courts of Greece and Spain, earning Royal Warrants and official endorsements, such as the creation of "Betrothal" to celebrate the marriage of the Duke of York and Princess May, later King George V and Queen Mary.
Significant Milestones
Grossmith has a tradition of celebrating significant royal events with special fragrances. For Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee in 1897, they created "Victorian Bouquet," dubbed "The National Perfume." In 1902, to mark the Coronation of King Edward VII, Grossmith introduced "Regal," described as "truly a royal perfume." These creations not only highlighted their royal connections but also showcased their ability to blend tradition with innovation.
The Revival
In the mid 1900s complications saw the Grossmith house became dormant and fade into obscurity. This was until 2006, when Grossmith was revitalised by the descendants of John Grossmith after a chance discovery. Simon, Amanda, Eleanor, and Kate Brooke, the fifth and sixth generations of the Grossmith family, have infused new life into the historic perfume house. They have meticulously restored original formulas while also creating new fragrances that honour the brand's rich heritage.
The Fragrances
Choosing a Grossmith fragrance is about more than just selecting a perfume; it’s about embracing a piece of history. Each bottle carries the legacy of a brand that has been trusted and adored by royalty for generations. Grossmith provides timeless options that appeal to connoisseurs of luxury and heritage.
Our exclusive Grossmith Discovery Set contains 6 of the best-loved scents from the esteemed fragrance house. Contains genuine fragrances that date back as far as 1888, the cost of this set is deductible from the price of a full-sized bottle upon finding your favourite.
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THE CLASSIC COLLECTION
Shem El Nessim
Arabic for 'smelling the breeze'. Florentine Iris, renowned for its rarity and cost, is truly the essence of this fragrance. First crafted in 1906, this opulent and rich scent epitomizes the Edwardian era with its warm, floral, and powdery notes.
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Hasu No Hana
The fragrance of the Japanese lotus lily
A luminous and radiant blend featuring distinct Chypre and Amber notes on a woody, dry, and very sensual base. Hasu-no-Hana marked the beginning of modern creative perfumery. Originally crafted in 1888, this scent possesses a timeless quality, reflecting its innovative origins.
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Phul Nana
Hindi for 'lovely flower'. A fresh, sweet floral blend with aromatic Fougère undertones on a soft, warm, woody base. First created in 1891, this fragrance uniquely combines the essence of an herb garden with that of a flower garden, a rarity in feminine scents. It set the stage for the modern fragrances that followed.Explore Now | Shop the Grossmith Discovery Box
THE BLACK LABEL COLLECTION
Golden Chypre
Golden Chypre offers a modern and vibrant take on the classic chypre, evoking visions of autumn sunlight glistening on golden leaves.Explore Now | Shop the Grossmith Discovery Box
Floral Veil
A captivating white floral fragrance with a subtle cool undertone, this composition exudes an air of mystery and sophistication reminiscent of a delicate veil.Explore Now | Shop the Grossmith Discovery Box
Amelia
This feminine fragrance was crafted in honor of Amelia Brooke, the father of founder John Grossmith, who played a crucial role in uncovering the lost perfume house. It features a fresh, floral, and soft aroma with key notes of rose, peony, and cashmere musk.Explore Now | Shop the Grossmith Discovery Box
Saffron Rose
This captivating composition opens with spicy notes of saffron and cinnamon, complemented by a beautiful rose. The heart features myrrh, oud wood, and tobacco, adding a stunning smoky quality to the fragrance, which evolves into a luxurious base of creamy woods, labdanum, and dark animalic accords.Explore Now | Shop the Grossmith Discovery Box
THE ROYAL COLLECTION
Betrothal
Betrothal begins with a vibrant burst of citrus notes, unfolding into a captivating floral bouquet of Rose de Mai and Jasmine from Grasse. It settles into a rich, sensual base. Betrothal is a magical, distinctly modern fragrance exuding elegance and sophistication. Crafted with the finest materials, it is the perfect match for a contemporary royal love story.Explore Now | Shop the Grossmith Discovery Box
Diamond Jubilee Bouquet
Grossmith’s homage to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Diamond Jubilee Bouquet, is a floral tapestry for the twenty-first century. This fragrance opens with vibrant citrus notes of orange and lemon, accented by delicate hints of lily of the valley and narcissus. The elegant floral heart features rose, iris, jasmine, violet, and heliotrope, balanced with a touch of smoky vetiver. It rests on a warm, sensual base of vanilla, tonka bean, hawthorn, amber, and powdery musks.Explore Now | Shop the Grossmith Discovery Box
King's Salute
King’s Salute, the third fragrance in Grossmith’s Royal Collection, launched on Coronation Day. This scent celebrates the King’s love for plants and gardening, while renewing Grossmith’s historic link to lavender. The King’s affection for his Highgrove garden, abundant with lavender and thyme, is well known. King’s Salute opens with lively citrus and bold lavender notes, leading to a heart of iris and thyme, accented with black pepper and cardamom. The lavender note persists throughout, supported by a base of subtly sweet musks and amber. The distinctive purple label is matched with the Royal Mail First Class postage stamp, a colour originally chosen for Queen Elizabeth and continued by King Charles.
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