First Impressions – Vilhelm Parfumerie, Dior, escentric molecules

Vilhelm Parfumerie – Body Paint – I enjoyed wearing this, but for me, it’s a redundant release if you already own Hermes Poivre Samarcande. Body Paint is a mix of spicy pepper, paprika, and iso-e super. The blend is wearable and lacks the challenging cumin element found in Poivre Samarcande. Therefore, I’d say it is a more crowd-pleasing version of the Hermes. Still, Body Paint is worth a try if you enjoy spicy, peppery fragrances. Body Paint is the second scent I’ve tried from the house, and I far prefer it to Morning Chess. Not something I’d buy, though. 

Dior – Oud Rosewood – The latest uninspired edition to the Maison Christian Dior line is Oud Rosewood. The fruity top of quince and raspberry doesn’t provide enough distinctiveness. Once we get to the woody, slightly animalic base, it feels like a mix of Purple Oud, Oud Ispahan, and perhaps Santal Noir. Nice try; it almost works but not quite. You can’t fool me, Dior and Mr Demachy. The other three scents are superior.  

escentric molecules – escentric 05 – Geza Schoen’s idea for escentric 05 was to recreate the experience of spending time on a Meditteranean island. The top notes of bergamot, juniper berry, orange, and fig convey the bright summer freshness that one would expect to encounter on a Mediterranean island. Aromatic, green, and herbal before the cashmeran note in the base takes on star status bringing with it a musky, woody, cocooning effect. Good work.

Have you tried these releases?

Note: Bottle images courtesy of Fragrantica. Samples obtained by the author.