You have likely smelled its fruits, but you may never have heard of the place where they are produced. Reggio Calabria is the capital of the region that shares its name and is the largest bergamot production center in the world. Located south of Reggio Calabria, Melito di Porto Salvo is another important town for the production of this citrus fruit. Its proximity to the sea and favorable climate contribute to its high yield.
Calabria is not one of Italy’s most visited regions; it lies at the southern tip of the famous boot and is more recognized for the local mafia than for the green gold it treasures. In its lands, which once belonged to Magna Graecia (on calm days, it almost feels like you could reach out and touch the large Mediterranean island of Sicily), one of the most essential citrus fruits in the global perfume industry is cultivated.
What Is Calabrian Bergamot?
Bergamot, known as the “green gold” for its high value, is the most prized citrus in the world, though its fruit is not consumed directly. What makes it so special is its peel, from which essential oils are extracted for use in cosmetics, medicine, and as a flavoring in the famous Earl Grey tea.
A Unique Citrus Born in Southern Italy
Interestingly, the highest quality bergamot is produced almost exclusively in the southern tip of Calabria, which accounts for 95% of the world’s production. This citrus, a hybrid between lemon and bitter orange created in the 17th century, thrives due to the warm climate, fertile soil, and the winds from the strait. Locals even attribute its superior quality to the blessing of Greek gods. In a good year, a liter of bergamot essence can fetch up to 300 euros.
Additionally, its fresh, citrusy aroma makes it a popular flavoring agent in gastronomy, especially in the famous Earl Grey tea
What Is Bergamot Used For?
Each year, executives from leading tea, perfume, and pharmaceutical companies visit Reggio Calabria to secure the best harvests. Bergamot essential oil is a valuable and versatile ingredient with applications across various fields. In cosmetics, it is used for its antiseptic and astringent properties to treat acne and tone the skin, and it is also valued in products designed to relieve stress and enhance skin appearance. In alternative medicine, bergamot oil is noted for its antibacterial properties, being used to treat minor infections and digestive issues, and in aromatherapy to reduce stress and anxiety.
It is also a prized ingredient in the world of perfumery, where it adds bright and refreshing notes to fragrances. Esteemed brands such as Acqua di Parma, with its classic Colonia, Floris, known for its sophisticated Bergamotto di Calabria, and Louis Vuitton, with the elegant Afternoon Swim, all feature bergamot to enhance their scent profiles. The wide range of uses for bergamot oil highlights its importance and versatility, demonstrating its global impact beyond its cultivation in Calabria.
Cultivation of bergamot
Currently, around 1,500 acres are dedicated to bergamot cultivation, yielding approximately 100,000 kg of essence annually. It takes about 200 kg of fruit to produce just one kilogram of essence. The plants are cultivated by grafting three bergamot branches onto a one-year-old bitter orange branch, which remains in a pot for a year before being planted at two years old. Grafting and transplantation occur in February or September, with the trees beginning production at three years old, reaching peak productivity at eight years, and continuing for up to 25 years. A well-maintained tree can produce up to a ton of fruit if pruned properly to protect the fruit from the harsh summer sun and wind.
Productivity is highly dependent on temperature and rainfall; the trees do not tolerate sudden temperature drops or inconsistent rainfall but are very heat-resistant. Trees are planted every four meters, and the land is protected by dense rows of pine trees on the side facing the sea to shield the cultivation from the strong winds that blow from the Strait of Messina throughout the year.
How Bergamot Oil Is Extracted
Traditional Methods: The Sponge Technique
Historically, bergamot oil was extracted using a slow, manual method called “sfumatura” or the sponge technique. This process dates back to the 18th century and involves:
- Hand-peeling the bergamot fruit to remove the zest.
- Pressing the peel against natural sponges (usually sea sponges) to absorb the oil.
- Squeezing the saturated sponges to collect the essential oil.
Though time-consuming, this method preserves the integrity of the oil and is still considered one of the purest ways to obtain it. Today, it’s used primarily for small-batch, artisanal production.
Modern Extraction Techniques
In modern industry, bergamot essential oil is typically obtained by cold expression, a mechanical process that gently presses the peel without using heat or solvents. The steps include:
- Washing and sorting the fruit.
- Mechanically rasping the outer peel to rupture oil glands.
- Centrifuging the emulsion of oil and water to separate the pure essential oil.
This technique is faster, scalable, and widely used to meet the global demand for bergamot oil—especially in the fragrance and food industries. Importantly, cold pressing helps preserve the delicate top notes that are essential for its aromatic profile.
Discover Bergamot in Calabria
Calabria, Italy’s southernmost region, is renowned for its stunning coastal beauty, epitomized by the charming city of Tropea and its nearby pristine beaches, Grotticelle and Spiaggia di Caminia. Tropea, perched majestically on a cliff overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, is celebrated for its historic architecture, including the iconic Santa Maria dell’Isola, and its vibrant local culture. Just a short drive from Tropea, Grotticelle Beach is famed for its crystal-clear waters and striking white sand, offering an idyllic setting for swimming and snorkeling.
Similarly, Spiaggia di Caminia, located near Staletti, captivates with its serene atmosphere, golden sands, and tranquil waters, providing a more secluded escape. Together, these coastal gems highlight Calabria’s natural splendor and rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking both relaxation and exploration.
What makes Calabrian bergamot different from other citrus fruits?
Calabrian bergamot (Citrus bergamia) is unique because it only grows in a small coastal area of southern Italy, where the microclimate between the Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas enhances its aromatic profile. Its essential oil is more complex and refined than other citrus fruits, making it highly valued in perfumery and wellness.
Is bergamot the same as regular bergamot orange or bitter orange?
No. While they are related, Citrus bergamia is a distinct species. It’s not the same as bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) or the bergamot herb used in teas like Earl Grey. Calabrian bergamot refers specifically to the citrus fruit cultivated in southern Italy for its high-quality essential oil.
Can you use bergamot oil on your skin?
Yes—but with caution. Pure bergamot oil contains bergapten, a compound that can cause phototoxic reactions when exposed to sunlight. Look for bergapten-free (FCF) or IFRA-compliant formulations if applying topically, and always dilute it with a carrier oil.
Is bergamot oil safe to ingest?
Only food-grade bergamot extracts are safe to consume and should be used in small amounts. Citrus flavor in Earl Grey tea, for example, is highly diluted. Never ingest pure essential oil unless it is specifically labeled for internal use and recommended by a health professional.
Why is bergamot used in perfumes?
The extract oil is considered a top note in perfumery due to its fresh, uplifting aroma. It balances floral and spicy scents and is a core ingredient in classic colognes, including the original Eau de Cologne from 18th-century Germany.
What are the health benefits of bergamot?
Studies suggest that this citrus fruit extract may help lower cholesterol, reduce anxiety, and provide antioxidant support. However, most benefits are associated with standardized extracts, not essential oil alone. Always consult your doctor before using it therapeutically.
Thank you for taking the time to explore the fascinating world of bergamot and its significance in Calabria. We hope this article has offered you valuable insights into this unique citrus fruit and its diverse applications. For more captivating stories and discoveries about the Mediterranean region, we invite you to continue exploring our website. There’s always more to uncover about the rich cultures, landscapes, and traditions that make this part of the world so enchanting.
Bibliography
Regione Calabria. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.regione.calabria.it/
Turismo Calabria. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.turiscalabria.it/
Bergamot Essential Oil: Botanical Profile and Uses. (2021). Journal of Essential Oil Research, 33(2), 105-117.
The Botany of Citrus and its Cultivation. (2019). Horticultural Science, 54(4), 678-689.
Medicinal Plants of Calabria: Traditional Uses and Modern Research. (2018). Italian Journal of Botany, 50(1), 45-56.