MIND GAMES
Opera Mate
2024
PERFUMER
Christelle Laprade
roasted chestnut
grapefruit
labdanum
creme brulee
davana
vetiver
suede
caramel
Sandalwood
Initially exclusive to the Mind Games webstore; later available at Selfridges. Released alongside Counterplay (2024).
‘A Mind Games online exclusive fragrance. Not available anywhere else. Drawing its inspiration from the thrilling match in the opulent Paris Opera house, Opera Mate is the perfect companion for a special night out. The fragrance opens with creamy sandalwood and a hint of caramel that adds a touch of sweetness enhancing the top notes. As it evolves, the scent dries down to a sophisticated blend of musk, benzoin, and vetiver, which provide depth and complexity. Opera Mate is crafted to take center stage and leave a long-lasting and memorable trail.’ – Mind Games
Released as a duo alongside Counterplay, so I’ve worn the two side-by-side for review, but the two couldn’t be further apart (and are a terrible clash to wear together). For both goes that I like them somewhat, but I don’t love them.
In the case of Opera Mate; what first seems to be a generic, trendy gourmand with that roasted, fatty, cookie, popcorn, cereal vibe, takes a rather interesting turn for a couple of hours. Almost instantly, it’s not as sweet as you initially may think it will be and I found it rather intriguing. However, I’m not sure if I liked it; it was almost off-putting. There’s a burst of sweetness, and then sweetness comes back fully for the late drydown, which is the most mass appealing, easy-going part of the wear. However, in between, it reminds me of those healthy-snack rice cakes. Grainy, unsweetened popcorn. And then there’s the faintest hint of bordering on indolic, rubbery plastic (saffron?)
As mentioned after a while, it goes back to your average caramelized, vanilla, biscuity, very sweet and common smelling gourmand base. Which is pleasant, but nothing to get excited for.
Overall; an interesting experience, albeit not my favorite.