Iris De Syracuse

When I wear this fragrance, I picture a precious iris-shaped brooch framed with blue sapphires - a delicate piece of jewellery, finely crafted, refined and elegant. This is certainly not an everyday fragrance. It feels sophisticated, with a slightly vintage character, and would make a beautiful complement to an evening outfit. It opens with a powdery, lipstick-like accord that brings to mind the dressing table of a polished, attractive woman. Spicy and citrus notes add a touch of sparkle and freshness, like a fleeting splash of champagne. As the composition unfolds, its floral character begins to emerge. Iris always takes centre stage - more earthy at first, then softer and more powdery towards the dry-down. In the sillage, musk blends with the scent of your skin, making the fragrance feel intimate, velvety and slightly cosmetic. Iris de Syracuse is interesting not only for its classic elegance, but also because it comes from Boucheron, a historic jewellery house renowned for its high quality standards and exquisite jewellery.

"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.