In the early 1900s, Grasse, France, had about 12,000 acres of flower fields. Today, about 124 acres remain. Nearly 2,000 tons of jasmine were once harvested each year. Now, fewer than 15 tons are produced, mostly by one family, the Muls. The Mul family says their jasmine has a distinct scent because, like grapes used in wine, where it is grown matters. Southern France offers a cool climate and rich soil. “You can’t put Burgundy in a bottle of Bordeaux, because people will tell you, ‘No, that's not Bordeaux!’ For the fragrances we do here for Chanel, it’s exactly the same thing,” says 87-year-old farmer Joseph Mul. In 1987, Chanel offered the Muls a deal to grow and sell flowers exclusively to them. It marked the first time a luxury brand partnered directly with farmers in Grasse. #Grasse #farmers #france #jasmine #perfume