OLYMPIC ORCHIDS
Blackbird

2013

PERFUMER
Ellen Covey

blackberry
balsam fir absolute
cedar resin
cedarwood
elemi
leaves
musk
amber
dry grass

Blackbird has quickly become one of my favorite fruity fragrances on the market, albeit it one that could be divisive depending on how it works on your skin.

What I mean by that is, that for me this may be the best blackberry scent that I’ve tried. Aside from the opening minutes, I don’t get a medicinal, cough syrup tinge, nor does it get too earthy. However, I’ve spoken to people who feel otherwise.

When I first smelled it, I was instantly hooked. However, when first applied on skin, I was a bit weary. The first whiff is a bit mentholated, liquorice-esque. Luckily, for me this fades, and it dries down into a long-lasting, soft, fruity blackberry scent that’s reminiscent of Ribena or Cassis drinks.

As it dries down further, more of the greener forest comes into play, but it doesn’t go as woody or earthy as I expected (or some others seem to experience); instead the fruitiness prevails throughout. Transforming a berry soft drink, into a more mature, berry tea.

Definitely on the sweet side, but never cloying to me. There’s enough acidity (in a blackcurrant way) throughout. Yet, I can see this being a demanding wear as its thick, vibrant and on the loud side.