One of Julia Restoin-Roitfeld's favorite fragrances is Maderas Eau de Cologne by Coqui Couqi Perfumes. When I first researched this scent, I was a bit surprised by the price per bottle. Then I noticed that the bottle on Julia's dresser is empty yet she has kept it. I cannot pinpoint why I find this detail so endearing but I do.
Coqui Coqui Perfumes was opened in 2003 by Nicolas Malleville, also occupied as a model and hotelier; he and Julia are close friends. Located in Valladolid on the Yucatan Peninsula, the shop carries a range of pure and natural products made locally: eau de colognes, scented candles, linen sprays, butter emulsions, face creams, and soaps. Essential oils derived from the abundant local botanicals in the area are the basis for the Coqui Coqui line in scents that include aloe, agave, chamomile, coconut, eucalyptus, jasmine, lemon, and mint blends.
Photograph of Julia Restoin-Roitfeld's Coqui Coqui perfume bottle © 2009 Todd Selby. All Rights Reserved.
Interior photograph of store and advertisement for Nicolas Malleville's Coqui Coqui Perfumer courtesy of Yucatan Today.