If you could choose to smell like anything in the world, surely picking a scent that captures the essence of Italian holidays would be high up the list. A fragrance that catapults you straight into a 16th century Italian palace, with peeling frescos and worn pastel mosaics. As you wander through the rooms, trailing your fingertips over the walls, you marvel at the light filtering across the architraves. This is exactly the old-age romance, sensuality and excitement that the two new perfumes from Valentino Parfums evoke.

Valentino Uomo Acqua, for men, is both fresh and intense, with mandarin, citron and green tomato top notes, while white leather and iris absolute make up the base with hints of clary sage and a patchouli heart. It will make the perfect gift for Father’s Day.

And why not treat yourself, too, while you’re at it? Valentino Donna Acqua, for women, is a fusion of tender green almond and frosted pear, with the warmth of a frangipani rose accord and a hint of sandalwood and hawthorn.

Presented in Valentino Parfum’s iconic studded glass bottles, both fragrances are available exclusively at Selfridges, Oxford Street, until 19 June.