Mini Reviews – Atelier Cologne

It may be winter here in Queensland, but the days have been clear, and the maximum temperatures have been hitting the low to mid 20 degrees Celsius (75 Fahrenheit) mark. Consequently, I can still wear my freshies. And when I think of citruses, one brand that instantly comes to mind is Atelier Cologne. Quite simply, they offer some of the best citrus scents going around. In today’s post, I look at 4 of my favourite scents from the house with mini-reviews of Pomelo Paradis, Bergamote Soleil, Orange Sanguine, and Cedrat Enivrant.

Atelier Cologne – Pomelo Paradis, Bergamote Soleil, Orange Sanguine, and Cedrat Enivrant – Sun kissed citrus – 8/10.

Pomelo Paradis is the brand’s take on grapefruit. For mine, it sits alongside Hermes Pamplemousse Rose and Guerlain Pamplelune in the grapefruit hall of fame. This Atelier Cologne is zesty, juicy, fizzy, and a touch candy-like. But, I think the Guerlain and Hermes are more natural smelling. Despite the synthetic touch that creeps in the dry down, Pomelo Paradis still conjures up images of sunny carefree days. Orange and orange blossom keep the good times rolling. Mint injects a herbal green touch. Blackcurrant brings a tartness. All in all, a rejuvenating elixir for the humid dog days of summer (or, in my case, winter).

Bergamote Soleil is the most “beachy” of the four. Unlike the grapefruit-centric Pomelo Paradis, it doesn’t verge into candy shop territory. Instead, aromatic notes of lavender, moss, and vetiver keep it grounded in nature. Right off the bat, the bitter orange and bergamot whisk the wearer away to a Mediterranean coastline. Don’t forget to pack your linen shirt and Wayfarers. The bergamot here is pulpy and intense. It feels like the rind has been thrown into the mix. Hence the long-lasting nature of the composition. Cardamom adds an intriguing spicy aspect, making this bergamot a perfect companion for both day and night.

Orange Sanguine is good enough to drink. Like Bergamote Soleil, Orange Sanguine creates a photo-realistic representation of its hero ingredient. The bitter blood orange opening is juicy and smells like a freshly squeezed glass of orange juice. Floral notes of geranium and jasmine join in and amp up the freshness. Neither overpowers the citrus element but they do give Orange Sanguine an undeniable soapy characteristic. This vibrant combination of notes is an instant mood enhancer. Sandalwood, amber, and tonka bean are the light foundation for Orange Sanguine. However, the citrus top notes remain omnipresent on my skin. 

Cedrat Enivrant also reminds me of a beverage. The combined effects of the dry citron, lime, and mint call to mind languid days on vacation drinking mojitos. A biting juniper note carries on the “happy hour” theme before a basil note introduces an aromatic, herbal facet. The base of Cedrat Enivrant is a cordial combination of woods, tonka, and elemi that never becomes overbearing.

Undoubtedly these four fragrances are simple, clear, and direct – the very antithesis of complex. All four are easy, breezy colognes with a similar life-affirming effect. Therefore, I’m not sure one would need to own all 4. If push came to shove, I’d probably pick Orange Sanguine or Pomelo Paradis as my favourites. However, if longevity is your thing Cedrat Envirant or Bergamote Soleil are your go-to scents. They last 5-6 hours on my skin, while the others last 3-4 hours. They all stick close to the skin. Ralf Schwieger is the perfumer behind all four creations.

Have you tried Atelier Cologne? Do you have a favourite?

All images are my own.