ALTAIA
Yu Son

2015

PERFUMER
Daphne Bugey

mandarin
green tea

iris
Orange blossom

amber
guaiac wood

Opens very realistic smelling. Like a mandarin or orange rind, quite zesty, but also strong on the bitter facet. Bordering on petitgrain, with greener, leafy and bitter tinges throughout the opening.

Moves more and more into orange blossom and I can also picture neroli. Still having some of the citrus and bitter aspects, but more and more softer florals. It’s quite musky, but still smelling rather natural and realistic to my nose at this stage, before turning over in the drydown.

As it dries down, the muskiness and a less natural smelling, neon-green vibe takes over. Still somewhat pleasant, but when the acidity from the citrus fades away, the scent loses most of its beauty for me. It becomes less juicy and leaves the more airy, sharper texture. Maybe I’m influenced by the sample card saying ‘vegetal musk’, but I’m reminded of Urban Scents Vegan Musk at bit at this stage.

Overall, a pleasant experience, with the first 30-60 minutes being lovely.