Heritage
A house, in its own words
The story of Exaltatum begins in 2016 when Eglija Vaitkevice, a London‑trained perfumer, launched the brand from a modest studio in the city’s indie fragrance community. Vaitkevice chose the name Exaltatum to reflect a personal philosophy: each scent should raise the wearer’s mood, memory, or imagination. Early press noted the brand’s commitment to a classic French composition style, a choice that set it apart from many contemporary niche houses that lean heavily on experimental structures. By 2018 the house released three fragrances—Ruby Wood, Osmanthus Noble, and Pergola—each drawing on natural ingredients while adhering to a balanced, linear architecture reminiscent of mid‑century French perfumery. The following year, Mimosa Gold arrived, adding a bright, floral sparkle to the portfolio. In 2020 Exaltatum introduced St. Paul’s, a tribute to the iconic London cathedral, further cementing its connection to the city’s cultural landmarks. By 2022 the line expanded with By Serpentine, a scent inspired by the winding river that threads through London’s parks. The most recent addition, Afternoon Tea (2024), captures the ritual of a British tea break with nuanced tea leaf and citrus accords. Throughout its evolution, Exaltatum has maintained a small‑batch production ethos, allowing the founder to oversee each launch personally and preserve the brand’s intimate, artisanal character. The house’s growth has been steady rather than explosive, reflecting a deliberate pace that prioritises quality and creative integrity over rapid market expansion. Exaltatum’s creative vision rests on the idea that fragrance can act as a gentle lift for the senses. The founder’s statement links the brand’s name to an intention: to raise someone’s spirit through scent. This guiding principle informs every decision, from ingredient selection to narrative framing. The house embraces the classic French composition method, which emphasizes a clear, harmonious structure: top, heart, and base notes that evolve predictably yet remain intriguing. Vaitkevice often describes her approach as a dialogue between tradition and personal memory, allowing familiar accords to serve as a canvas for subtle, unexpected details. Sustainability and ethical sourcing appear in the brand’s public statements, suggesting a respect for both the environment and the communities that provide raw materials. While the label does not claim industry awards, its consistent focus on craftsmanship and emotional resonance has earned it a modest following among fragrance enthusiasts who value understated elegance over flashier marketing. The philosophy also extends to the brand’s communication style, which favors warm, conversational language rather than lofty proclamations, inviting customers to experience each perfume as a shared story rather than a commodity.