In conversation with Antica Farmacista Perfumer Shelley Callaghan, learn more about the the inspiration behind Neroli & Tonic—a fragrance with bright notes of Sicilian lemon, bergamot, and bitter orange open to a heart of neroli, jasmine, and petitgrain, grounded by a crisp base of cedar and cypress.
What inspired this scent?
I've always been captivated by the dramatic beauty of coastal landscapes—particularly the Monterey Peninsula in Northern California and the Mediterranean. Rugged cliffs lined with cypress trees, citrus groves heavy with blossoms, and the endless expanse of saltwater stretching to the horizon… it’s a setting that intoxicates the senses. Neroli & Tonic was born from those memories: a convergence of two regions that hold deep personal meaning for me, both visually stunning and rich with fragrant detail.
When you smell Neroli & Tonic, does it take you to a specific place or memory? Where do you want people to be transported when they smell this?
For me, it’s that moment standing high above the coastline, the breeze alive with salt air and the heady perfume of orange blossoms. I hope this scent transports people to a sun-drenched coastal escape—where land meets sea, and nature’s contrasts come alive in every breath.
How does this scent fit into the overall Antica collection, in your opinion?
There’s a consistent thread in every Antica fragrance: a balance of refinement and edge. Whether the profile is floral, citrus, green, or earthy, there’s always a complexity—an unexpected twist that elevates the experience. Neroli & Tonic fits right in. The bitterness in the citrus top notes, especially the inclusion of petit grain and bitter orange, adds a crisp, modern edge that sets it apart. It’s effervescent, but also bold.
What gets you excited about this specific fragrance?
I’m drawn to bitterness lately—in fragrance, food, and especially cocktails. There’s something old school, yet current about it. Neroli & Tonic captures that beautifully with its sharp citrus opening and herbaceous heart. It feels incredibly fresh and relevant, while still evoking the timeless elegance of Mediterranean coastal life.
