Niche perfume boutique Aedes de Venustas has launched Encens Japonais, a new fragrance. (Encens Japonais is also one of the brand's candles.*)
An opulent and spicy perfume draws on the freshness of incense before it is burned.
The doors of a temple swing open. An intoxicating rush of ancient Japanese incense fills the air. It is rich and enveloping, yet it lifts as much as it grounds the spirit. This is the essence of ENCENS JAPONAIS.
A first whiff is a bit like looking through a keyhole: you think you know what you are viewing, but it is only upon further inspection that a full scene emerges. Instantly, a vivacious spiciness is present, a just-ground dusting of bracing pink pepper and black pepper with a touch of orange oil. But quickly other notes come to the fore: the Japanese incense entwined with the softness of leather. The balancing qualities of soft iris and rose. The sensuality of musk, the honeyed bitterness of strawflowers, and the voluptuous sweetness of precious woods draw you further into the depths of the temple.
While incense is immediately associated with depth and smoke, ENCENS JAPONAIS is a little-smelled riff on unburned incense. A freshly opened box, often smelled at AEDES PERFUMERY, has a peppery, fresh quality that dissipates when lit. The most high quality version comes from Japan.
Encens Japonais was developed by perfumer Bertrand Duchaufour. Additional notes include opoponax, benzoin, coffee and patchouli.
Aedes de Venustas Encens Japonais is available in in 100 ml Eau de Parfum, $245.
(via aedes)
* Note also that Encens Japonais sounds similar, but not necessarily identical, to the discontinued L'Artisan Parfumeur Aedes de Venustas, which was also developed by Bertrand Duchaufour.
Hmmmmmmm
My exact thought too!
I think I need a sample of this. I don’t like the new Aedes bottles at all, but this juice sounds right up my alley.
I dunno
I want it to be like the original but even better.
Whatever that means.
I would like it to have a heavier strawflower note.
That said, I didn’t buy the original and probably won’t buy this either.
I hope they’re planning travel sprays.
Yes – want a sample of this for sure!
This description has me swooning, and I don’t usually like incense fragrances.
Do you love leather?
I do!
Then do try it. If it’s like the old one, might work for you.
On the sample list it. Goes! 😉 Thanks, Robin!
Has anyone tried it? I am wondering how it compares to CdG Kyoto. Or their Copal. I have the Copal in the old bottle and love it. Not a fan of the new bottles but I would guess that round is easier to hold than square.
I haven’t.