The Story
Why it exists.
The beginning
Casamorati traces its roots to 19th-century Bologna. The house carried Italian perfumery traditions forward, preserving a dedication to quality ingredients and classical construction. Xerjoff brought it back, ensuring that heritage would continue. The brand represents a living archive of Italian perfumery, revived to showcase what made Italian fragrance houses originally remarkable. Lira arrived in 2011 under perfumer Chris Mau rice, marking a departure from the house's more traditional offerings into gourmand territory.
The note selection in Lira reflects a philosophy of contrast and balance. Citrus and aromatic opening notes provide immediate appeal and brightness, creating an entry point that feels modern and approachable. The heart combines spice and florals in a way that bridges the fresh opening to the warm drydown. The final act belongs to the gourmand triad of Vanille, Caramel, and Musk, a combination that speaks to comfort and sensuality. These notes work tog ether because they follow a natural progression: bright to warm to sweet. The lavender in the opening also serves as a subtle bridge, its herbal quality echoing the spiced warmth to come.
The evolution
Lira begins with a sparkling citrus opening that immediately signals approachability. Orange and Bergamot lead with bright, sparkling energy while Lavender adds aromatic depth underneath. This opening feels fresh and inviting, a smart move before the warmth arrives. As the fragrance develops, Cinnamon emerges in the heart alongside Jasmine and Rose. The spice is gentle but present, warming the composition without overwhelming the florals. Jasmine brings a slightly indolic lushness while Rose adds a romantic, classic touch. The transition into the drydown marks Lira's true character: Vanille and Caramel create a rich, almost edible sweetness that feels like stepping into a warm kitchen. Musk provides the final grounding, a soft, skin-like warmth that allows the gourmand notes to linger without becoming overwhelming. The arc moves deliberately from brightness through warmth into comfort, a journey that feels both intentional and satisfying.
Cultural impact
Lira has found its audience among those who appreciate a sweet fragrance with more complexity than the ordinary. Its strong longevity and sillage make it a standout in the Xerjoff portfolio. Sweet without being one-note, warm without being heavy, it offers something different. It's the kind of fragrance that stays memorable, drawing people back to experience its evolving character again and again.
The House
Casamorati 1888Casamorati traces its roots to 19th-century Bologna, where Claudio Casamorati established his perfume factory and registered the iconic double-C trademark on 17 April 1888. The house gained international recognition for its scented soaps and fine fragrances before disappearing from the market for over six decades. Xerjoff acquired the rights in 2009, reviving the collection under the direction of founder Sergio Momo. The brand draws inspiration from Art Nouveau aesthetics and the golden age of Italian perfumery, presenting fragrances that evoke a classical, oriental sensibility through warm spices, florals, and precious woods. Each scent carries the visual identity of the original house, with flacons and insignia preserved from the 1888 foundation. Notable releases include Lira (2011), a gourmand composition built around vanilla and caramel, and Dama Bianca (2012), a white floral with kumquat and vanilla. The brand maintains a curated collection that spans aromatic, oriental, and floral olfactory directions, reflecting its commitment to historical Italian craft.
The Creator
Chris Mau riceMaurice is known for declarations that arrive first. He favors generous applications of ingredient, building sillage that announces presence before the wearer enters the room.
