New Bottega Veneta Fragrances: Is It Worth the Hype?
My discovery set arrived last week, and I’m ready to share my thoughts.
Disclaimer: I’m not a fragrance expert, but I love good perfume. Every two years or so, I go on a big hunt to find new treasures to add to my collection, ones that will bring me pure pleasure whenever I put them on, whether I go out or stay home! If you’re a fragrance lover like me, join me on this journey to explore each new scent.
When it comes to fashion, I’m a big fan of Bottega Veneta and the work of Matthieu Blazy. When I think of luxury, Bottega meets all my expectations—exceptional craftsmanship, beautiful high-quality fabrics, impeccable styling, and textures that are to die for. So, when I saw the release of their fragrance collection, which consists of five scents, I was immediately on the hunt for a discovery set. I went to their official website, and even though the set was marked as “pre-order” with an estimated shipping date of November 8th, I received my order just three days after placing it.
“Five fragrances made from 100% natural ingredients. Inspired by the city of Venice and its history of cross-cultural encounters, each evocative perfume weaves together essences from different corners of the globe, captivating the senses and transporting the imagination,” states BV’s website. I’ve read quite a few reviews, and many of them talk mostly about the bottles. I guess it's easier and more tangible to discuss because they are quite exquisite.
“Made of mouth-blown glass, the bottles resemble water droplets and reflect the abstract leather shapes that brought the house its recognition. Hold the bottles up to the light, and you’ll notice thousands of tiny air bubbles floating in the glass, paying homage to the long-standing tradition of Murano glassblowing,” reports Nylon. Additionally, each bottle comes with a green Verde Saint Denis marble slab. What a chic perfume coaster!
Ok, let’s get into it!
Overall: I’m very intrigued by each scent and really like them, but I’m not ready to commit to buying a full bottle just yet (though that might change soon). Read my thoughts below to learn why:
1. Déjà Minuit. Déjà Minuit captures the essence of sophisticated and seductive allure, blending heady notes of Geranium from Madagascar with the spicy warmth of Guatemalan Cardamom.
How I feel about it: It’s very rich and powerful, with a lot of sweetness mixed with spices. If this scent were an outfit, it would be something bold with many patterns and lots of accessories—very expressive and meant to be seen. I’d reserve Déjà Minuit for going-out events when I’m in the mood for red lipstick and a seductive outfit.
2. Colpo di Sole. Colpo di Sole captures the warmth of the Mediterranean sun, blending tranquil notes of French Angelica oil with the radiant sensuality of orange blossom.
How I feel about it: I applied this in the morning, and it feels light and charming. Out of all the scents, this one could easily be worn during the day. I absolutely love the warm, sweet orange blossom notes. It starts off feeling like a warm orange sunset and then develops into something fresher and crisper, which is quite unexpected. The more I smell it, the more I fall in love with it—so delicious.
3. Acqua Sale. Acqua Sale blends woody labdanum absolute from Spain with Macedonian juniper berry, capturing the enveloping scent of saltwater on skin.
How I feel about it: Generally, I like woody scents, but sometimes they can be overpowering and even nauseating. However, Acqua Sale presents an incredible mix of woody and berry notes—something I haven’t experienced before. It feels contrasting—serious yet playful at the same time. As autumn approaches, I’m looking forward to wearing this with something warm and cozy (I love pairing outfits with fragrances).
4. Alchemie. An exhilarating and opulent encounter, Alchemie combines vibrant pink pepper with precious myrrh from Somalia.
How I feel about it: It’s very rich, sweet, and spicy, with a slightly smoky opening. This is not a morning fragrance. Even as it develops, the layers remain too heavy and sweet for my taste. I can’t think of an outfit or mood to match it with.
5. Come with Me. Come with Me blends the fresh elegance of Italian Bergamot with the powdery violet of French Orris butter.
How I feel about it: The initial notes remind me of fresh leather, which I like. Leather scents can be heavy, but this one feels more balanced. Usually, I’m a big fan of bergamot in summer fragrances, especially those that have a grassy vibe.
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Summary: It’s hard to be surprised by something truly new and unique these days, but I found each fragrance special in its own way. I did find all of the scents quite heavy (Colpo di Sole being the lightest), and I want to wait for colder weather to test them again. I think it’s totally worth to get a discovery set and play with each scent depending on the weather, your mood, occasion.
Everyday favorite: Colpo di Sole for its warm orange notes followed by a crisp, fresh layer.
Night-out favorite: Acqua Sale for its alluring mix of wood and berry notes.
"To feel special" favorite: Come with Me for its leathery feel that isn’t overwhelming.
This was so helpful! Thanks!