Scentrack: Sixpence Non The Richer – Kiss Me
Fragonard
is a well-known fragrance house from Grasse that dates back to 1920s, However,
for some reason, it is not very popular in the Fragcom. There is not a lot of
talk about Fragonard, reviews are scarce, and even their shop at Blvd
Saint Germain in Paris is easily missed. I am glad I finally entered the
shop, thanks
to my fragrance-wise totally ignorant girlfriend who took me there because a
travel guide suggested I have discovered something I have been
looking for years.
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| Source: Fragonard |
After
spending around half an hour chatting with a very friendly and knowledgeable
shopping assistant, I decided to take Valentin home. Valentin was so friendly,
optimistic, and quite familiar. Still, I could not pinpoint the composition
that Valentin reminded me of. It took me some time before I finally realized Valentin
is a take on the old formulation of YSL L’Homme with a touch of Orient. The
opening is similar, light citrus accompanied by ginger. While L’Homme possesses
a muffled spicy character, Valentin shouts. The ginger is paired with a high
dose of cardamom and nutmeg. L’Homme continues to stronger cedar base, while
Valentin travels to the East. The more accented Oriental character of Valentin
gives another dimension to the composition. The cedar is perfectly paired with a
cozy nutty quality of Tonka bean and a touch of vanilla. Wearing Valentin in the
Latin Quarter is like magic, and I have not felt so enthusiastic for years. The
performance is only average, but for the price one could reapply the fragrance often.
Valentin
is a small hidden gem waiting to be discovered, like most of the Fragonard
collection and their charming boutique. From now on, whenever I am in Paris,
Fragonard is the place to go.
Longevity
/ Projection
Average
(5-7 hours) / Average
Suggested
wearing
Spring
or Fall / Daytime or Evening
Alternatives
Yves
Saint Laurent L’Homme – beautiful sunny creation ruined by reformulation
Trussardi
Riffleso – darker take on the similar theme
Pros
Optimistic and happy
Easy to wear
Easily likable
Unbelievably priced, practically a steal
Cons
Average
performance
Rating
7/10
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