Contact: Frederick Hass, Excelsis, 888-357-3957

SAN RAFAEL, Calif., Sept. 17, 2013 /Christian Newswire/ -- Excelsis Fine Fragrances announced today it has created an exciting new cologne and aftershave product made expressly to honor Jorge Mario Bergoglio, newly elected Pope of the Roman Catholic Church.

Called simply, "Francis," the new papal fragrance responds to a groundswell of requests from customers of The Pope's Cologne, Excelsis' flagship product, which honors the late 18th Century Pontiff, Pope Pius IX. A second popular Papal cologne, Benedictus, honoring the current Pope Emeritus, was introduced in 2006.

Francis is a smooth and engaging subtle fragrance, with a citrusy top note of bergamot and a soft, woody drydown of sandalwood. Excelsis President and CEO Frederick Hass, M.D. says that he was inspired to create the new cologne and aftershave after watching enormous crowds in St. Peter's Square at the conclusion of the recent Papal Conclave shouting "Francesco, Francesco, Francesco."

"I put a great deal of thought and effort into creating Francis," says Dr. Hass, "and we are simply thrilled with the enthusiastic early reaction to it. We are hearing words like 'gentle,' 'simple,' 'warm,' 'pleasing' -- and even 'heavenly' -- used to describe the new fragrance. These are precisely the terms used by the media and the new Pope's close associates to describe His Holiness' own character traits and personal demeanor."

Initially, Francis will be available only online at www.ExcelsisUSA.com. Distribution for retail sales will begin shortly thereafter. Dealer inquiries are invited.