Bergamots

Bergamots are a group of fragrant citrus fruits, most notably the bergamot orange (Citrus × bergamia). This fruit is primarily grown in the Calabria region of southern Italy. The bergamot orange is distinct from other citrus fruits in its appearance, being roughly the size of an orange but with a yellow-green skin and a characteristic pear-like shape. Its pulp is acidic and quite bitter, making it generally unpalatable for fresh consumption.

The primary value of the bergamot orange lies in its peel, which is rich in essential oils. These oils are extracted through cold pressing and are highly prized for their unique floral and citrusy aroma. The scent of bergamot is a key component in many perfumes and colognes, lending a fresh, uplifting note. It is also famously used to flavor Earl Grey tea, giving the beverage its distinctive taste and fragrance. Beyond perfumery and flavoring, bergamot essential oil is sometimes used in aromatherapy for its purported mood-enhancing properties.

While the bergamot orange is the most well-known, the term "bergamot" can also refer to other plants with similar aromatic qualities, such as the bergamot mint (Monarda didyma), a North American flowering plant. However, in common usage and in the context of commerce, "bergamot" almost exclusively refers to the citrus fruit. The cultivation of bergamots is a specialized agricultural practice, with specific environmental conditions required for optimal growth.