The Story
Why it exists.
The beginning
Rituel du Siam was launched in 2007 by Cinq Mondes, with the composition credited to perfumer Jean-Pierre Béthouart. Its name carries the Siam reference at the heart of this fragrance from the house. The note list is notably clear and direct: citruses and bergamot establish the opening, coriander leaf adds another aromatic accent, and ginger, cinnamon, and pepper bring a warmer spice accent. Guaiac wood forms the base and gives the composition a darker woody character. Together, these notes present a fragrance that moves between fresh citrus, aromatic detail, spice, and wood. The result is bright on the surface and more dimensional beneath it, with enough structure for the different elements to remain clearly expressed.
The most compelling part of Rituel du Siam is the relationship between its fresh and warm notes. Bergamot and coriander leaf shape the citrus opening, while ginger, cinnamon, and pepper introduce the composition's spice side. Rather than resting on one aromatic idea, the fragrance develops through the contrast between bright fruit, leafy detail, and warmly spiced notes. Guaiac wood then provides a woody base that changes the register of the scent, making it feel darker and more grounded than its opening.
The evolution
Rituel du Siam begins with citruses, bergamot, and coriander leaf. The opening establishes its fresh, aromatic side before ginger, cinnamon, and pepper introduce a warmer layer. As the composition develops, the citrus character gives way to the warmer notes, creating a transition from brightness to spice. Guaiac wood forms the base beneath the opening and heart, giving the fragrance a distinctly woody foundation. The listed notes make the progression easy to follow: citrus and bergamot at the top, coriander leaf, ginger, cinnamon, and pepper through the middle, and guaiac wood at the base. The result balances fresh and warm aromatic elements with a darker woody finish.
Cultural impact
Rituel du Siam is a fragrance from Cinq Mondes launched in 2007 and composed by Jean-Pierre Béthouart. Its name provides a clear cultural reference, while its composition explores a combination of citruses, bergamot, coriander leaf, ginger, cinnamon, pepper, and guaiac wood. The fragrance's identity comes from this varied aromatic language: fresh notes at the opening, warmer spices in the middle, and wood at the base.
The House
Cinq MondesCinq Mondes is a French spa and beauty house rooted in the study of traditional wellness rituals from around the world. Founded by Jean-Louis Poiroux after extensive journeys across five continents, the brand translates ancestral beauty ceremonies into a collection of skincare and aromatic products. Its fragrance portfolio, launched in the mid-2000s, includes aromatic mists and eaux inspired by Egyptian, Indian, Thai, and Indonesian traditions, featuring compositions built around pure essential oils.
The Creator
Jean-Pierre BéthouartBéthouart's work tends toward warm, enveloping textures that linger close to the skin. He is particularly adept with contrasts between crisp top notes and creamy, almost powdery bases, a tension that gives his creations their characteristic push and pull.
