Stella McCartney's truffle scent debuts

Stella McCartney has announced the launch of her latest fragrance, which unusually features truffle as a top note. McCartney's truffle choice seems surprising at a time when recent releases have been particularly fruity and floral.

Stella McCartney has announced the launch of her latest fragrance, which unusually features truffle as a top note.

Entitled L.I.L.Y, the perfume, WWD reports, will launch exclusively in the UK at department store Selfridges January 26 before reaching other retailers February 15. It will begin selling worldwide as of March, with a US launch in September at beauty chain Sephora.

McCartney's truffle choice seems surprising at a time when recent releases have been particularly fruity and floral (Rebelle by Rihanna, Versace Yellow Diamond, Nine West Love Fury).

Master perfumer Jacques Cavallier of Firmenich, who worked with McCartney on her floral signature scent, Stella, explained his surprise at the decision.

"The truffle was unusual, but I said OK to Stella," he is quoted as saying.

"We used natural extract of truffle, and I actually told the suppliers we were working with that the extract was for a restaurant! I didn't want to let people know what we were doing."

McCartney, who described the arrival of truffles at a dinner table as being "sexy," also revealed the sentimental meaning behind the fragrance's name.

"It comes from my dad's nickname for my mum: ‘Linda I love you,'" explained the designer, speaking of Sir Paul McCartney's moniker for his late wife Linda.

L.I.L.Y also features notes of lily of the valley and oak moss. A body lotion and shower gel will also be available. Prices range from $25 - $100.