Review of Moscado by Olga Steinfeld

My curiosity about Asian perfumery continues, and I find myself drawn to any fragrance that might offer a glimpse into the region’s perfume culture and help me understand it a little better. So, naturally, when I came across Moscado and its beautiful bottle, reminiscent of porcelain decorated with cobalt-blue patterns, I couldn’t resist taking a closer look. Of course, this is more of a European interpretation of Asian culture than a reflection of authentic Asian perfumery. The fragrance opens with a citrus-spicy accord of citrus notes and pink pepper. From the very beginning, it evokes associations with Earl Grey tea, with the zesty sharpness of citrus peel and the astringency of tea. Then the fragrance becomes floral, bright, and richly scented, reminiscent of certain flowering trees, such as linden or bird cherry, after the rain. Towards the end, it softens and becomes more transparent, with hints of honey and hay, much like linden blossom tea. The fragrance remains fairly linear throughout its development. Overall, I find this fragrance unusual in the sense that I can’t quite decide whether I like it or not. For an Asian fragrance, it lacks that "aquarelle" effect and transparency; for a European one, it lacks depth. And yet, it is pleasant and harmoniously balanced. It’s simply a fragrance I haven’t quite figured out for myself. Longevity is good - 5–6 hours. Projection is moderate, and I haven’t noticed a trail. P.S. Honestly, I still can’t seem to walk past this bottle without being drawn to it.😅It’s beautiful and exquisite, and it looks like a little work of art. I can easily imagine it becoming a lovely decorative accent in an interior, appreciated for its aesthetics just as much as for the fragrance it holds.