Category Archives: Old Noses

Peach and cassis dominate lemon with other citrus notes and lavender lingering in the mild distance (Weil 1933).  Then zany florals (freesia and jasmine in particular on my skin) lilt in with a spicy, saucy abandon. And yet the warm, grounded base of patchouli, a lovely sandalwood and a vanilla (with a bit of anContinue reading “Secret of Venus (Repost)”

Warm, endearing neroli is flanked by jasmine, peach blossom, tuberose and musk. Pink pepper and cedar round this sweet beauty out… It’s a classic orange blossom (Penhaligon’s 2010), it’s not particularly fussy and for some it might even seem too simple. But I love it. Penhaligon’s Orange Blossom is the sort of scent that won’tContinue reading “Orange Blossom (Repost)”

I’m generally not one to like modern interpretations of anything but for some unknown reason I like this one (Dior 2017). Of course, it’s only very vaguely reminiscent of the original Miss Dior but I do see a slight similarity and I’m not sure I like this one less. Yes, it’s very much a fragranceContinue reading “Miss Dior edp 2017 (Repost)”

If it could be described as a somewhat heavy fragrance, and it could (especially at first) Rausch (J. F. Schwarzlose Berlin 2012) transforms with time to become a little bit softer, sweeter and airier.  Complex, rich and sexy, this beautiful oud with warm sandalwood, sophisticated patchouli and a present but unobtrusive vanilla is quite perfectly intenseContinue reading “Rausch (Repost)”

Sycomore by Chanel (Chanel 2008) is like taking a breath of clean mountain air in late spring or early summer. The florals (violet in particular) are sweet and noteworthy but they don’t take center stage. Rather, it’s the cypress and sandalwood with their sincere, crisp beauty that shine. Also, of course, (almost cigarette tinged) vetiver.Continue reading “Sycomore (Repost)”

Vintage vanille acts like a toasted, syrupy coating over every note. This fragrance is very sweet. Musk and sandalwood only add to the sweetness, although they do also add depth. But ultimately this Caron fragrance from 1927 is a sugary floral with an emphasis on a very pretty rose. And while the indulgent, sweet beautyContinue reading “Pois de Senteur (Repost)”

This was one of my (paternal) Grandma Adeline’s favorite fragrances, if not her signature fragrance. Smelling the perfume from my late 1980’s or early 90’s bottle I am transported back to my grandparent’s house. Fendi (Fendi 1985) wafted around various spots all over their abode from her presence and left a pleasing fragrance trail. FendiContinue reading “Fendi (Repost)”

Of course I can’t help but be reminded of Chanel No 5 when I smell Ernest Beaux’s historic Le No 1. for Rallet (Rallet 1913 & 1923) as it was its predecessor (by the same nose) but I am also reminded of Coty L’Aimant and Le Galion Sortilège.   It’s beautiful and very important toContinue reading “Le No 1 (Repost)”

Eau de Cologne Quintessence by Agnel of Paris (Agnel 1900’s or so?) is very rare so I’m truly guessing at the notes in this vintage bottle. To my nose, punchy lemon, orange, rosemary, geranium, and eucalyptus at the start are refreshing. Then soft florals and fizzy orris root are combined with woody amber and laterContinue reading “Eau de Cologne Quintessence (Repost)”

Emir (Dana 1936) is classified as an oriental fragrance.  It starts with a rich, warm aldehydic burst of unearthly powdery citrus, specifically citronella.  And, as it moves into an intense and vibrant floral heart it has an enormous but not overpowering presence.  Matter of fact, at times it is a bit like a good bottleContinue reading “Emir (Repost)”