120 years strong. Penhaligon’s Blenheim Bouquet

When it comes to fragrance, I believe in quality over quantity. That's why I’ve chosen just one: Penhaligon’s Blenheim Bouquet. This scent, with its deep-rooted history and distinctive blend, has become an essential part of my identity.

Blenheim Bouquet was created in 1902 for the Duke of Marlborough, and it’s named after his family’s estate, Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire—Britain’s greatest palace. This grand, historic estate has become famous not just for its beauty but also for its connection to notable figures like Winston Churchill, a descendant of the Marlborough family and a devoted admirer of the fragrance. Today, Blenheim Bouquet remains one of Penhaligon’s most iconic creations, perfectly capturing the spirit of British aristocracy.

The scent itself is timeless and refreshing. It opens with sparkling notes of lemon and lime that quickly give way to a sharp herbal lavender. Then, the base notes emerge—woodsy pine, spicy black pepper, and subtle musk—creating a fragrance that’s both invigorating and grounded. Blenheim Bouquet is a classic men’s fragrance, traditional yet undeniably modern.

Penhaligon’s has a rich history of its own. The brand was founded in the late 1860s by William Henry Penhaligon, a barber from Cornwall who became Queen Victoria's court barber and perfumer. His first fragrance, "Hammam Bouquet," was inspired by the Turkish baths near his shop, and it laid the foundation for many more creations, including Blenheim Bouquet. Over time, Penhaligon’s has expanded to include bath lines, room fragrances, and candles, but it’s their ability to balance tradition with timeless elegance that has secured their place as a favorite among fragrance lovers.

Beyond its olfactory appeal, Blenheim Bouquet also connects me to the rich history of Blenheim Palace, a location that has captured the imagination of filmmakers for decades. The palace, with its stunning architecture and vast, scenic grounds, has been the backdrop for many films and TV series. If you’ve visited the palace, you’ve likely been struck by how cinematic the place feels, with its grand rooms and sweeping views. It’s no wonder producers have flocked to it as the perfect filming location.

For those planning a visit to Blenheim Palace, you might want to watch some of the many films and TV series shot there before you go. Here are a few notable ones:

Spectre (2015) – This James Bond film features Blenheim Palace as the grand setting for a key scene.
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007) – Parts of the palace were used to portray Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series.
Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015) – The palace makes an appearance in this action-packed Tom Cruise film.
The Crown (Netflix) – The palace has been used in several episodes to recreate various royal residences.

Watching some of these before your visit can add an extra layer of excitement as you recognize familiar scenes during your tour of the palace. Whether it’s the connection to Blenheim Palace or the luxury of Penhaligon’s craftsmanship, Blenheim Bouquet will always be my favorite scent, forever linked to history, elegance, and timeless beauty.

Blenheim Bouquet store.