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Bottega Veneta Cipresso Review: An Olfactory Escape to Tuscan Cypress Groves

Discover the sophisticated allure of Bottega Veneta's Parco Palladiano II Cipresso.

By Sofia Chen-Martinez · · Updated

There are fragrances, and then there are experiences. Bottega Veneta’s Parco Palladiano II Cipresso falls firmly into the latter category, a scent that doesn't just adorn the skin but transports you. As someone who navigates the rarefied air of luxury perfumery, I can tell you that the Parco Palladiano collection is more than just a series of scents; it’s an invitation into the soul of Italy, captured in a bottle. Launched as part of this exquisite line, Cipresso specifically aims to bottle the essence of the iconic Tuscan cypress trees, those stately sentinels that define the Italian landscape. It’s a fragrance that speaks of heritage, of timeless elegance, and of a connection to nature that feels both profound and sophisticated. This isn't a scent you stumble upon; it's one you seek out when you desire something truly special, something that whispers rather than shouts, yet leaves an indelible impression.

Positioned within Bottega Veneta's esteemed Parco Palladiano collection, Cipresso stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to artisanal quality and olfactory artistry. Unlike more mass-appealing designer releases, this collection is curated for the discerning individual who appreciates nuanced compositions and a story woven into each spritz. Cipresso, in particular, occupies a unique space, offering a green, woody, and subtly aromatic profile that is both invigorating and deeply comforting. It’s a departure from the overtly sweet or aggressively fresh trends, carving out a niche for those who gravitate towards more natural, grounding aromas. Its exclusivity is palpable, found in select boutiques and online, ensuring that wearing it feels like being part of a select club.

The inspiration behind Parco Palladiano II Cipresso is as evocative as the scent itself. Imagine standing amidst the rolling hills of Tuscany, the afternoon sun warming your skin, the air alive with the scent of cypress trees, their needle-like leaves releasing a resinous, slightly smoky aroma. This is the vision that perfumer Alain Cornic brought to life. The cypress note itself is central, but it's expertly balanced with other elements that create a harmonious and surprisingly complex bouquet. It’s a tribute to the enduring beauty of the Italian countryside, a place where nature’s grandeur is intertwined with man-made elegance, much like Bottega Veneta’s own design philosophy.

In the fragrance community, Cipresso has garnered a reputation as a sophisticated, mature, and undeniably chic scent. It's not a fragrance that screams for attention, but one that commands it through its sheer quality and unique character. Enthusiasts praise its naturalistic portrayal of cypress, its impressive performance, and its versatility. It’s often described as a fragrance that feels both modern and timeless, appealing to those who appreciate a departure from the norm. Its cultural impact lies in its ability to evoke a sense of place and memory, offering a sensory escape to the Italian countryside with every wear. It’s a scent that has carved out a devoted following among those who seek olfactory art.

The Nose Behind the Scent

Alain Cornic. He is known for his sophisticated and evocative scent compositions, often drawing inspiration from nature and creating fragrances that feel authentic and artful. His background in luxury perfumery has equipped him with a keen understanding of high-quality ingredients and refined blending techniques.

4.3 Overall
Longevity
4.4
Projection
3.9
Sillage
3.7
$150 - $200 for 100ml
🌸Spring☀️Summer🍂Fall❄️Winter

Accords

Woody 40%
Green 30%
Aromatic 20%
Spicy 10%

Notes Pyramid

Top
Cypress LeafBergamotLemon Zest
Heart
Cypress WoodRosemarySage
Base
CedarwoodVetiverOakmoss

Scent Journey

1
Opening 0-30 min

The initial spray is a burst of vibrant, almost bracing greenness, dominated by the sharp, resinous aroma of cypress leaf. This is immediately brightened by a zesty accord of bergamot and lemon zest, creating an invigorating and clean opening that awakens the senses. It feels like stepping out into the crisp morning air of the Italian countryside.

2
Heart 1-2 hrs

As the initial burst settles, the heart of the fragrance unfolds, revealing the true woody character of cypress. The green notes become more rounded, harmonizing with the aromatic herbs of rosemary and sage. This phase is where the scent gains depth and complexity, feeling more grounded and contemplative, like exploring deeper into the cypress grove.

3
Drydown 4+ hrs

The base notes emerge to provide a warm, earthy, and enduring foundation. Cedarwood lends its dry, elegant woodiness, while vetiver adds a smoky, slightly leathery depth. Oakmoss contributes a damp, forest-floor earthiness, creating a sophisticated and long-lasting trail. This is the scent’s lingering embrace, a subtle yet persistent reminder of its exquisite character.

Performance Dashboard

⏱️ Longevity 4.4/5

This fragrance truly lasts. Expect it to comfortably stay on your skin for 8-10 hours, often even longer, making it an excellent choice for a full day or evening out.

📢 Projection 3.9/5

Cipresso projects beautifully without being overpowering. For the first 3-4 hours, it creates a noticeable aura around you, drawing people in, before settling into a more intimate sillage.

💨 Sillage 3.7/5

The trail it leaves is refined and discernible. It's not a scent that announces your arrival from across the room, but rather one that leaves a sophisticated impression as you move, a subtle yet memorable presence.

When to Wear

🌸SpringOK
☀️SummerAvoid
🍂FallBest
❄️WinterBest
💕 Date night🌙 Evening events📌 Formal gatherings📌 Sophisticated casual outings📌 Art gallery visits📌 Quiet evenings at home

Community Verdict

⭐ Overall
4.3
👃 Scent
4.5
⏱️ Longevity
4.2
💨 Sillage
3.8
💰 Value
3.9
💌 Compliment Factor 4.1/5

Compliments for Cipresso are usually thoughtful and appreciative, coming from people who recognize and value a sophisticated, well-crafted fragrance. Expect comments like "What is that unique, woody scent?" rather than generic "You smell nice.",

Pros & Cons

  • ✅ Unique and sophisticated cypress-forward profile
  • ✅ Excellent longevity and consistent presence
  • ✅ Refined and versatile for various sophisticated occasions
  • ✅ High-quality, natural-smelling ingredients
  • ✅ Evokes a strong sense of place and atmosphere
  • ❌ Can be perceived as too mature or austere by some
  • ❌ The green/woody notes can be polarizing for those unaccustomed
  • ❌ Premium pricing places it out of reach for some budgets
  • ❌ Sillage is moderate, not a room-filler for those who prefer that

Price & Value

$150 - $200 for 100ml
Premium to Luxury

“For those who appreciate its unique profile and superior quality, Cipresso offers excellent value. The performance, ingredient quality, and sheer artistry justify the price point for the discerning buyer seeking a signature scent that stands apart. It’s a fragrance that feels special every time you wear it.”

📜 Reformulation History

There are no widely reported significant batch variations or major reformulation concerns for Bottega Veneta Parco Palladiano II Cipresso that have altered its core character. The consistency of the scent is a testament to the brand's commitment to quality within this collection.

Who It's For

✅ Ideal For

  • Men and women aged 30 and above who possess a confident, sophisticated demeanor.
  • Those who appreciate natural, woody, and aromatic scents, and seek a fragrance that feels both timeless and unique.
  • It's for the individual who values understated luxury and artisanal craftsmanship.

⚠️ Not Recommended For

  • Younger individuals who prefer overly sweet or fresh aquatic scents.
  • Those who are very sensitive to green or woody notes, or who require an extremely loud, attention-grabbing fragrance for daily wear.
  • It might also be too mature for those seeking playful or overtly youthful scents.

The Family

Parco Palladiano II Cipresso EDP Bottega Veneta

A richer concentration offering enhanced longevity and depth.

Parco Palladiano Collection Bottega Veneta

Cipresso is part of a larger collection inspired by Italian gardens, including fragrances like Melagrana and Magnolia.

Explore More

🔍 Similar Fragrances

Tam Dao Diptyque

Shares a prominent woody and naturalistic profile.

Fleur de Sel Miller Harris

Evokes natural landscapes with green and slightly salty notes.

Green Irish Tweed Creed

Offers a sophisticated, naturalistic essence and excellent performance.

Encre Noire Pour Homme Lalique

Provides a sophisticated, dark, and earthy woody depth.

💡 Clone Alternatives

Encre Noire Sport Lalique

Captures a similar refined masculinity with a sportier twist (discontinued, but users note the vibe).

Generic Cypress Accord Indie Fragrances Various Indie Brands

May offer a budget-friendly approximation of the core cypress note.

❤️ You May Also Enjoy

Terre d'Hermès Hermès

For its earthy, mineralic, and woody character.

Oud Wood Tom Ford

For its luxurious and smooth woody profile.

Colonia Essenza Acqua di Parma

For its clean, citrusy, and aromatic Italian elegance.

Wonderwood Comme des Garçons

For its complex and artistic exploration of woody notes.

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Bottega Veneta Illusione Bottega Veneta

🧪 Layering Ideas

🏆 Final Verdict

Bottega Veneta Parco Palladiano II Cipresso is more than just a fragrance; it's an olfactory masterpiece that invites you into a moment of serene beauty. If you're seeking a scent that speaks of quiet confidence, natural elegance, and a connection to the timeless landscapes of Italy, then Cipresso is an absolute must-have. Its expertly crafted cypress accord, balanced with aromatic herbs and a sophisticated woody base, creates a profile that is both distinctive and deeply comforting. It performs beautifully, leaving a refined trail that garners thoughtful compliments, and its versatility makes it suitable for a range of occasions where you want to exude sophistication. While it resides in the premium price bracket, the unparalleled quality, unique character, and the sheer artistry contained within each bottle make it a worthwhile investment for any discerning fragrance connoisseur. Embrace the cypress grove; you won't regret it.

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