Grasse (Provençal Occitan: Grassa in classical norm or Grasso in Mistralian norm) is a town and episcopal see in southeastern France. It is a commune of the Alpes-Maritimes department (of which it is a sub-prefecture), on the French Riviera.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grasse
Introduction to Grasseby FROMMER'SNovember 20, 2006 Grasse, a 20-minute drive from Cannes, is the most fragrant town on the Riviera, though it looks tacky modern. Surrounded by jasmine and roses, it has been the capital of the perfume industry since the days of the Renaissance. It was once a famous resort, attracting such royalty as Queen Victoria and Princess Pauline Borghese, Napoleon's promiscuous sister. Today some three-quarters of the world's essences are produced here from foliage that includes violets, daffodils, wild lavender, and jasmine. (read article)