Pistachio: what it smells like and what to wear with the main note of summer 2026
A year ago, pistachio lived in ice cream and baklava. Now it has settled on wrists, and the perfume ...
In 2022, a new bright spot appeared on the world's perfumery map—the Spanish niche brand Contes de Parfums. From the very beginning, its mission was clear: to tell captivating stories not with words, but through fragrances that transport you to the most atmospheric corners of the planet.
Founded in Barcelona, the brand was born from a passion for travel and a desire to capture fleeting moments of urban life in a bottle. Although the founder's name remains undisclosed for now, it is known that behind the project is a team of connoisseurs of high perfumery and contemporary art, aiming to create not just perfumes, but true olfactory guides.
The philosophy of Contes de Parfums is built on the idea of a sensory journey. Each fragrance is a meticulously crafted portrait of a specific city, weaving together its culture, architecture, nature, and the emotions of its inhabitants. It's not just a perfume; it's an invitation to explore.
The brand's concept is unique: instead of abstract names or labels, each bottle bears the name of a real city—from the dynamic Tokyo to the idyllic Positano. The perfumers working with the house travel to these locations to immerse themselves in their atmosphere, study local materials, and create a composition that becomes an olfactory postcard.
The creation process resembles that of a journalist or artist: first, impressions are gathered, then emotions are translated into chord notes. For example, for the fragrance Reykjavik, inspiration came from Iceland's pure glaciers and geothermal springs, while in Sevilla, the passion of Andalusian flamenco comes to life.
To date, the brand's main and only collection is a series of city portraits, constantly expanding. The assortment has no division into men's and women's perfumes; each fragrance is created in a gender-neutral aesthetic, emphasizing the universality of emotions and experiences.
Among the already released perfumes are nine captivating stories: from the Middle Eastern mystery of Dubai to the Mediterranean lightness of Hydra. Each bottle is a separate journey, and together they form a unique perfumery atlas of the world.
Despite the brand's youth, some fragrances have already become true favorites among niche perfumery enthusiasts. An absolute hit is considered Tokyo—a modern interpretation of Japanese aesthetics, where the delicacy of cherry blossoms combines with technological chords.
Also often topping sales are the sensual Salalah, evoking thoughts of Arabian tales, and the vibrant, spicy Shanghai, reflecting the hustle and bustle of a metropolis. These fragrances are most frequently recommended for a first introduction to the world of Contes de Parfums.
In reviews, fans of the brand particularly note the high artistry of the compositions and their ability to evoke vivid associations. Many write that Contes de Parfums perfumes are not just scents, but "time machines" that instantly transport them to beloved places.
From a technical perspective, the brand's fragrances are executed in Eau de Parfum concentration, ensuring decent longevity—from 6 to 8 hours on the skin. The sillage is typically moderate but very expressive, characteristic of quality niche perfumery. The compositions settle well on the skin and unfold gradually, revealing different facets throughout the wearing time.
Contes de Parfums is one of the few brands that has fully dedicated itself to an urban theme. When choosing cities, the creators are guided not only by the destination's popularity but also by its emotional potential. For example, Bilbao was chosen due to the contrast between its industrial past and the futuristic Guggenheim Museum.
The brand also adheres to ethical production principles: all fragrances are cruelty-free and created with sustainable development in mind. The packaging is made from recyclable materials, highlighting the modern and responsible approach of this Spanish house.
Like any successful niche brand, Contes de Parfums can attract counterfeiters. To ensure authenticity, pay attention to the details: a high-quality bottle with clear engraving, sturdy cardboard packaging with accurate color reproduction, and, of course, a unique batch code on the bottom of the box. Purchase perfumes only from official dealers or trusted retailers specializing in niche perfumery.
| Number of fragrances | 18 |
| Collections (2) | Cities Collection, Timeless Cities Collection |
| Segment | Niche perfumery |
| Founded | 2022 |
| Official website | https://contesdeparfums.com |
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