In the heart of Bulgaria, amidst the rolling hills and serene landscapes, lies a tale as captivating as the fragrance that graces the air. The Bulgarian rose, often referred to as the 'Queen of Flowers', has a history that stretches back centuries, intertwining cultures from around the world. Join us as we embark on a journey through time as we unravel the story of the Bulgarian rose and its transformation into Sulaym's HM Royal Rose, an oil steeped in rich history and royal heritage.
Bulgarian Rose: Travelling through an Empire
SULTAN MEHMED II
The Damask rose, known scientifically as Rosa damascena and popularly as the Bulgarian rose, traces its name to Damascus, Syria's capital. Damascus, historically a pivotal hub on the Silk Road, was renowned for its trade, culture, and botanical significance. This iconic rose is believed to originate from this ancient region, spanning modern-day Syria and its neighboring territories.
Its journey to the lush valleys of Bulgaria, aided by Ottoman merchants, epitomises the combination of geographic exploration and the pursuit of olfactory perfection. Nestled south of the Balkan Mountains lies Bulgaria's famed 'Rose Valley', a region where the idyllic blend of soil and climate provides a sanctuary for these cherished flowers.
Harvesting: A Labour of Love and Precision
ROSE HARVEST - BULGARIA - 1932
Harvesting the delicate petals of the Bulgarian rose is an art that demands both precision and a deep connection with nature. Traditionally done by hand, skilled harvesters carefully select the roses at just the right moment, usually during a short window which starts before sunrise. Each bloom is delicately plucked, ensuring that only the freshest and most vibrant petals are selected.
Extraction: The Artistry of Rose Oil
At the heart of the Bulgarian rose's allure lies its extraction process. It takes around 3 tonnes of rose petals to distil just 1 kg of precious rose essential oil - each 3gr bottle of HM Royal Rose contains the essential oil of over 140,000 rose petals! This meticulous process, known as steam distillation, yields an aromatic treasure trove of liquid gold. Steam gently passes through the petals, capturing their essence in the form of pure rose oil. To guarantee purity and uphold the flowers' elevated oil content, certain farmers will even transport distillation equipment to the heart of their rose fields. This meticulous process demands substantial effort, highlighting the scarcity and worth of this aromatic treasure.
The Birth of HM Royal Rose: A Regal Legacy
1990 20th ANNIV. OF THE SULTAN QABOOS ACCESSION
HM Royal Rose, embodies the culmination of centuries of reverence for the Bulgarian rose. Sourced from the private atelier of HM Sultan Qaboos, this fragrance has aged gracefully for over two decades, evolving into a fragrance that transcends time itself. The Sultan would commission only the most exquisite batch from the annual harvest to be carefully bottled for his private collection. It is said that, to ensure access to the very best oil, he would acquire entire harvests from farmers.
I often recall the initial moment I unraveled the ribbon from the wax seal and delicately piercing the sealed container. It felt akin to stumbling upon an age-old treasure, evoking a sense of discovering something truly timeless and precious.
The Aromatic Symphony of Rose: Perfumery
The captivating scent of roses has long been a highly prized ingredient for perfumers around the world. Pure Bulgarian rose oil, with its harmonious blend of floral and citrusy green notes, is often used to increase sillage and longevity in natural perfumery.
Rose otto should be used with caution in the realm of perfumery. A mere few drops possess the capability to assert its dominance and disrupt the harmony of surrounding fragrances. Unfortunately, this is precisely why cheap blends often incorporate an excessive amount of rose – a mischievous endeavor to cloak the presence of chemical and non-natural ingredients.
Aromatic Alchemy: Science and Spirituality
The scent of roses is renowned for its ability to induce relaxation, alleviate stress, and even uplift one's mood. Throughout the ages, rose has been intertwined with notions of love, beauty, and romance, forging a deep connection between wearers and the tapestry of human desire. A rose of this exceptional quality possesses the remarkable capability to transport the spirit to a realm of serenity, positivity, and introspection.
The prevailing reaction I often receive when individuals experience HM Royal Rose for the first time is an instinctive closing of the eyes followed by a serene smile. Often, they describe it as an otherworldly, heavenly aroma.
The Sultans Rose
As we conclude our journey through the enchanting history of the Bulgarian rose, I invite you to experience the legacy firsthand. Royal Rose, with its timeless elegance and regal heritage, is the pinnacle of pure Bulgarian rose. Allow its fragrance to embrace you, connecting you with centuries of tradition and the essence of regal luxury.