Lavande 44 by Rania J.

*****
Year: 2012

Notes: bergamot, petitgrain, lavender, patchouli, labdanum, oud, cedar, vetiver, tonka bean, musk
Lavande 44 is an unusually salty and soapy rendition of lavender, which is far removed from the woody-aromatic greenness of, say, Caron's Pour Un Homme.

Featuring woody and smoky undertones, the citruses and lavender are quite fleeting, with the lavender exuding some peppery facets. As for the woods, they are prominent for most of its lifespan (particularly the vetiver, oud and cedar).

Unfortunately, the composition is reduced to an almost imperceptible skin scent within half an hour. And while the tonka bean provides a little sweetness, during the drydown, its musky (and somewhat chalky) demeanour belies its brash opening.

Lingering for three to four hours, there are far better (and more substantial) niche alternatives available, such as Serge Lutens' Gris Clair, Tauer Perfumes' Rêverie au Jardin, Maria Candida Gentile's Luberon and some of the lavender-themed offerings from Esperienze Olfattive.


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