The 2008 harvest of ylang ylang from the Island of Nosy Be: "an exotic star"
Nosy Be is a small island off the northwest coast of Madagascar. It has been nicknamed “the scented island” because the air on the island is filled with the fragrances of flowers and spices. Its climate is more humid than that of Madagascar itself, and is almost equatorial in nature, which is highly unusual in this tropical region. In Nosy Be, ylang ylang blooms all year round. In 2008, the rainy months early in the year meant that the flowers were less abundant but amazingly fragrant. Their quality was graded “extra” (the highest rank of four).
These rare flowers were harvested at the perfect time, when the white-green petals were just beginning to turn yellow and to curl up on themselves. After the morning blossom gathering session, the petals are then aired and distilled quickly on site. The 2008 essence was produced in small amounts, making it all the more precious. It emphasises the exotic fruity facet (green banana note) of ylang ylang from Madagascar and deepens the flower’s captivating, almost addictive intensity.