Iris De Syracuse

"Iris de Syracuse" opens up with a strong black pepper note, which may feel somewhat confusing and liquorice-like because of mandarin orange wrapped around it. Pear is too green to hold its own, and only hints of it exist through slightly honeyed sweetness. Iris steps in pretty fast, powdered by heliotrope. They "push" the pepper off the stage and this is when composition starts becoming rather unique and interesting. Iris is a cool blue and heliotrope undertone does not make it warmer, but pepper does. And now that pepper is no longer domineering, the fragrance is quite beautiful and superbly delectable. Jasmine, like the pear, is not pronounced and is detectable by its indolic flashes of gold (it is more visible during the summer period, adding its own signature sweetness and taming the pepper furthermore). White musk is a solid base, well rounded by vanilla, creating a subtle and elegant background without interfering with the heart notes, adding some freshness, which makes "Iris de Syracuse" a year-round wearable perfume as well as a solid unisex. Despite its simplicity, the scent is unmistakably original and nothing else comes to mind that may compare anywhere close to its signature. Pepper accord creates a great twist on otherwise "old classic" of iris, heliotrope and musk, justifying its name as the Port of Syracuse was the at the cross roads of the West and Orient and was full of luxurious spices, colours and fabrics. "Iris de Syracuse" has a restrained projection and is great for both close encounters as well as going out. It lasts at least 6 - 8 hours on my skin, and its notes' transitions are most enjoyable to behold. To me, - it is a perfect niche classic - its very own character and twist, quiet luxury evoking the opulence and mysticism of the ancient history.