The Scent Of A Spy: Uncovering James Bond's Casino Royale Cologne

Although Ian Fleming's James Bond never wears a fragrance in the novels, the cologne that Daniel Craig's Bond wears in Casino Royale has been the subject of much speculation. One source claims that the cologne Bond wears in the film is Virgin Island Water, while another suggests that it is Santa Maria Novella's Melograno, which was actually Vesper Lynd's fragrance. A third source claims that the cologne Bond uses is Acqua di Parma Colonia.

James Bond's cologne in Casino Royale was a unisex fragrance by Santa Maria Novella called Melograno

Although Bond author Ian Fleming never presents 007 as a lover of fragrances, it is speculated that Bond may have worn Floris No.89, as Fleming himself was a devout wearer of the scent. In fact, Fleming included Floris products in several of the Bond books, and the brand's London shop is located in St. James, a district that served as inspiration for many of Bond's daily exploits.

In the films, Bond is also never seen wearing a fragrance, and in one scene in From Russia, With Love, he quips that he and his fellow countrymen don't wear cologne because "we wash". However, some have speculated that Bond may have worn Virgin Island Water in Casino Royale and Tobacco Vanille in Quantum of Solace.

Melograno by Santa Maria Novella is described as having a sharp, citrusy opening with hints of incense, leather, and pomegranate, followed by a tender dry down with notes of aldehydes and musk. It is said to be quintessentially English perfumery, and its combination of tenderness and sharpness is thought to suit the complex character of Vesper Lynd, the owner of the fragrance in the film.

Vesper's cologne in Casino Royale was Floris No.89

Vesper Lynd's cologne in Casino Royale was Santa Maria Novella's Melograno. However, Ian Fleming, the author of the Bond series, wore Floris No.89.

Although Bond is never described as wearing cologne in the original novels, Fleming's personal preference for Floris No.89 has led to speculation that Bond might have worn the same scent. In the film adaptation of Casino Royale, Bond is also not shown wearing any cologne. However, one scene features a clear square bottle of yellow liquid that some fans believe to be cologne.

Floris No.89 is a quintessential British gentleman's scent with a woody aroma. It has top notes of bergamot, orange, neroli, and nutmeg, and base notes of rose, ylang-ylang, oakmoss, and sandalwood. The fragrance is described as both tender and edgy, and its complexity is said to evoke Daniel Craig's moody portrayal of Bond.

While Bond may not have worn Floris No.89, the author who created him certainly did. And in a story filled with intrigue and complexity, it's only fitting that the cologne that might have been Bond's also has a few surprises of its own.

Ian Fleming never presents 007 as a lover of fragrances

However, Fleming himself was a devout wearer of fragrance and had a soft spot for perfume parlours and barbershops, particularly those found in his preferred London district, St. James's. This is evident in his writing, as he includes many of the brands and products he encountered in St. James's in the Bond books. For instance, in 'Moonraker', Bond observes that "Floris provides the soaps and lotions in the lavatories and bedrooms" of Blades Club. In 'Diamonds are Forever', Bond considers how his housekeeper should prepare his Chelsea flat for his imminent arrival: "He would have to send a cable to May to get things fixed. Let's see – flowers, bath essence from Floris, air the sheets…". And in 'Dr No', after being captured by the titular villain, Bond freshens up in a luxurious en-suite filled with Floris products: "There was everything in the bathroom – Floris Lime bath essence for men and Guerlain bathcubes for women."

Fleming wore Floris No.89 Eau de Toilette, a fragrance created just a year before he published his first novel, 'Casino Royale'. It is described as having a woody aroma with bold top notes of bergamot, orange, neroli, and nutmeg, as well as more delicate, secretive scents of rose and ylang-ylang among the oakmoss and sandalwood. This quintessential British gentleman's scent was also worn by Cary Grant, who was producer Albert R. Broccoli's first choice for the role of 007 in 'Dr No'.

While Bond himself may not be a fragrance enthusiast, the world he inhabits is certainly scented. The brands and products that Fleming encountered in his daily life in St. James's inspired and informed the creation of the world's most iconic spy and his daily exploits and endeavours.

Ian Fleming wore Floris No.89

The Scent of a Legend

Although James Bond is never described as wearing cologne in Ian Fleming's novels, the author himself was a devotee of Floris No.89. A man with a penchant for the finer things in life, Fleming's personal preference for this fragrance adds an intriguing layer to the character of 007.

A Fragrance with a Story

First launched in 1951, just a year before the publication of Fleming's debut novel, *Casino Royale*, Floris No.89 is imbued with a sense of history. Created in the sub-basement of the Floris shop in London's Jermyn Street, this scent has endured as a classic for over seven decades.

A Timeless, Woody Aroma

With top notes of bergamot, orange, neroli, and nutmeg, Floris No.89 makes a bold first impression. However, a second sniff reveals a more nuanced character, with delicate rose and ylang-ylang complementing the sturdy oakmoss and sandalwood base notes. This complex blend of aromas creates a sophisticated fragrance that is both fresh and woody.

A Signature Scent

Floris No.89 is a quintessential British gentleman's scent, favoured not only by Ian Fleming but also by Winston Churchill and Cary Grant. Its timeless appeal and understated elegance make it the perfect choice for those seeking a signature fragrance.

A Long-Lasting Fragrance

Floris No.89 is designed to linger, with excellent longevity that ensures the scent endures throughout the day. A few sprays on the pulse points are all you need for a subtle yet enduring aroma.

A Classic, Masculine Appeal

This fragrance exudes masculinity, evoking the image of a well-groomed gentleman. Its complex blend of citrus, floral, and woody notes strikes a perfect balance, resulting in a scent that is both fresh and sophisticated.

A Tribute to Ian Fleming

By wearing Floris No.89, one pays tribute to the creator of James Bond. This fragrance encapsulates the essence of Fleming's refined taste and appreciation for quality. It is a testament to his legacy, a legendary author who brought to life one of the most iconic characters in fiction.

A Connection to James Bond

While Bond himself may not have been described as wearing cologne, Floris products do make an appearance in the novels. In *Moonraker*, Bond observes that Floris provides the soaps and lotions in the Blades Club. In *Diamonds are Forever*, he requests his housekeeper to prepare his flat with "flowers, bath essence from Floris, [and] air the sheets." Even in *Dr No*, after being captured, Bond freshens up with "Floris Lime bath essence."

A Fragrance for the Modern Gentleman

Floris No.89 is a timeless fragrance that transcends generations. Its complex blend of aromas and long-lasting nature make it a versatile choice for modern gentlemen. Whether you're attending a formal event or simply going about your daily routine, this scent will elevate your presence with its understated elegance.

In Conclusion

Ian Fleming's choice of Floris No.89 as his signature scent adds an intriguing layer to the James Bond universe. This fragrance, with its rich history and complex aroma, is a testament to the author's refined taste. By wearing Floris No.89, one not only honours Fleming's legacy but also embraces a timeless, masculine fragrance that is both classic and sophisticated.

James Bond wore Virgin Island Water while filming Casino Royale

James Bond is a fictional British spy, known for his charm, style, and ability to seamlessly blend into his surroundings. While Bond is depicted as fragrance-free in Ian Fleming's novels, the author himself was a devout wearer of Floris No.89, a quintessential British gentleman's scent with woody, musky, and citrusy notes. This fragrance also makes an appearance in the film adaptations, notably in the personal effects of Bond's girlfriend in "Casino Royale".

However, in the 2006 film "Casino Royale", Daniel Craig's Bond wore Virgin Island Water. This choice of cologne adds an intriguing layer to Bond's character, as the fragrance is known for its unique and unexpected notes, reflecting the complex nature of the secret agent.

Virgin Island Water is a complex and intriguing fragrance, much like James Bond himself. With its blend of citrusy and woody notes, it captures the essence of a man who is both stylish and charismatic, always ready to take on any challenge that comes his way.

While Bond's choice of cologne may not be explicitly mentioned in the film, it adds a subtle touch of sophistication and mystery to his character. The scent is a perfect match for Bond's psychological profile, reflecting his natural charm and ability to blend into any environment, whether it's a high-stakes casino or a sleek yacht in the Virgin Islands.

In conclusion, James Bond's choice of Virgin Island Water while filming "Casino Royale" is a subtle yet powerful detail that enhances the iconic character's allure and complexity. The fragrance, like Bond himself, is both classic and unexpected, leaving a lasting impression that lingers long after the credits roll.

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