Shalva Qutelia. The Scent of Tbilisi
One can discover a wealth of contrasts outside of the charm and coziness of the Old Town that Tbilisi now tends to be habitually linked with in the mind of a traveler, the perspective is different and welcome yet naturally, to a local the place opens up in much broader nuance.
Be it stylish modernist architecture juxtaposed upon a landscape populated with soviet buildings or the desire of locals to move elsewhere for a better life in spite of having a profound appreciation for the laid back spirit of the country it is doubtless, a unique and dreamy atmosphere is something that Tbilisi carries within.
By extension and in my experience everything acquires the quality we imprint on it, things, places and situations inherit the moods and energies of people so after a lifelong contemplation I’ve learnt to find a soothing harmony in the way many opposites of life coexist instead of resisting them, since in a way, they are also a part of me, it is precisely this awareness I wanted to bring to others as easily as with a press of a finger.
The fragrance I have composed thanks to the opportunity provided by the workshop and the host’s resolute integrity in regards to every aspect, although satisfactory still requires tuning and experimentation on my side as well as a name which I will continue with upon future attendance and after the maturation process, until then please try it yourself.
Cinnamon – 20 drops -The Warmth of Memory
Like the nostalgic heat of late autumn sun against ancient bricks, cinnamon stands as the soul of your scent. It speaks of hearths and heritage, of whispered stories over cracked cups of spiced tea. Its intensity is a grounding force—a nod to the deep-rooted traditions and enduring warmth that linger in the corners of Tbilisi’s older districts.
Lavender – 8 drops – The Serenity of Distance
Lavender wafts like the hush that settles on the hills above the city, where silence is tinged with wild herbs and ancient breath. It brings a quiet balance, a soft echo of introspection, of peace found in the margins, away from the clamor. A gentle nod to the possibility of elsewhere, without denying the beauty of here.
Ylang-Ylang – 8 drops – The Pulse of Emotion
Floral, voluptuous, and dreamy, ylang-ylang is the feeling one gets in the midst of a sudden memory or a fleeting glance. It sings of longing, sensuality, and a tender complexity. Much like the people of Tbilisi—outwardly mellow, inwardly profound—it is the fragrance of soulfulness clothed in golden light.
Ginger – 5 drops – The Spark of Movement
Ginger crackles like unexpected laughter or the quiet flame of ambition, the urge to break patterns and chase new winds. It cuts through the sentimental fog with clarity and courage, reflecting the restless heart of those who seek transformation while still cherishing their roots.
Lemon – 5 drops – The Breath of Clarity
Fresh and clean like morning light on a rooftop terrace, lemon is the pause that sharpens perception. It awakens, uplifts, and offers a slice of simplicity amid the complex layers. It’s the moment of looking out over the city and seeing it anew, every time.
Sweet Orange – 10 drops – The Smile of the Everyday
Sweet orange brings in the sunlight, the warmth of kindness, the easy laughter that lingers in courtyards and cafes. It’s the friend that shows you the heart of a place, the small joys that often go unseen but make a life worth living. A fragrant reminder that beauty is often found in the most ordinary of things.