Best known for their signature cologne (Colonia) first introduced in 1916, the Italian line Acqua di Parma also produces several other fragrances and a plethora of bath, body and home fragrance products.
In 1994, three Italian businessmen purchased Acqua di Parma, relaunched the Colonia fragrance in international distribution and began expanding the company’s product line. Acqua di Parma’s perfume business is now majority-owned by Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy (LVMH).
Fragrances in the regular Acqua di Parma line include Colonia Assoluta (2003), Profumo and Iris Nobile (2004). An Eau de Parfum version of Iris Nobile launched in 2006.
Recent fragrance releases include Acqua di Parma Colonia Intensa (2007), Profumi di Acqua di Parma (2008, new version of a 1930 fragrance), Magnolia Nobile (2009), Colonia Essenza (2010), Gelsomino Nobile (2011).
Blu Mediterraneo
An offshoot, Blu Mediterraneo, was established in 1999, and also produces fragrances and body products. In 2005, the Blu Mediterraneo line was streamlined and relaunched to better focus on its intended positioning as “a casual, hedonistic [and] natural part of the Italian lifestyle”.1
Fragrances in the Blu Mediterraneo line include Arancia di Capri (orange), Cipresso di Toscana (cypress), Mandorlo di Sicilia (almond), Fico di Amalfi (fig) and Mirto di Panarea (myrtle).
Recent releases include Bergamotto di Calabria (2010).
Where to buy
In the US, the line can be found at selected Neiman Marcus and Barney’s department stores, as well as online at Bigelow Chemists, Space NK and Sephora.
In the UK, try Harrods, Liberty or Escentual.
Elsewhere, try Senteurs d’Ailleurs in Brussels or First in Fragrance in Germany.
Website
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1. Via Women’s Wear Daily, 3/24/2005.
