An Olfactory Ode to Velvet Fruit

Over a century ago, Jacques Guerlain charted a bold new course in modern perfumery. His groundbreaking discovery of a synthetic molecule—aldehyde C-14—allowed him to capture the lush, velvety scent of fresh peaches without relying on any natural fruit extracts. This daring innovation not only expanded the perfumer’s palette but also gave rise to a new genre of fragrance: the fruity chypre. It was a turning point that helped shape some of the most iconic perfumes in history, beginning with the legendary Mitsouko in 1919.

Over a hundred years later, a visionary new creation continues Guerlain’s avant-garde legacy: Pêche Mirage, the latest addition to the L’Art & La Matière collection, crafted by Guerlain Perfumer Delphine Jelk. With its delicate, velvety skin and aromatic flesh, the peach offers a remarkably rich spectrum of fragrance notes. Yet its volatile nature makes capturing its true essence a persistent challenge. Just as Jacques Guerlain once turned to aldehyde C-14 to evoke the scent of peaches, Delphine Jelk now turns to Melbatone—a cutting-edge molecule derived from green chemistry. This innovative ingredient amplifies the peach’s natural characteristics, encapsulating its aroma and freshness with modern precision.