Aromatics Elixir

Aromatics Elixir by Clinique is a feminine-leaning eau de parfum from 1971 in the designer price tier. It opens with chamomile, bergamot, coriander and aldehydes, moves into rose, jasmine, ylang-ylang and tuberose and dries down to patchouli, oakmoss, vetiver, incense and sandalwood. Expect around 12 hours of wear, and it projects very strongly.

Notes, explained

Opening

Chamomile Herbal, apple-like and calming. Quiet and a bit hay-ish.
Bergamot Sharp citrus with a faint bitter edge. The opening of about half of all men's fragrances.
Coriander Warm seed spice, slightly citrusy. A quiet workhorse.
Aldehydes Fizzy, soapy, slightly waxy. The 'sparkle' at the top of Chanel No. 5.

Heart

Rose Can be jammy, green, peppery or soapy depending on the type. Not one smell.
Jasmine Heady, sweet and slightly animal underneath. Rarely subtle.
Ylang-Ylang Banana-custard floral. Rich, tropical and slightly rubbery.
Tuberose Creamy, waxy and enormous. The loudest white flower.

Dry-down

Patchouli Damp earth and dark chocolate. Either you love it or it's your least favourite note.
Oakmoss Damp forest floor. Bitter, green and the backbone of every chypre.
Vetiver Dry, earthy, smoky grass root. Smells like soil and citrus peel.
Incense Smoky, dry and meditative. Adds gravity to anything.
Sandalwood Creamy, milky wood. Soft and almost edible.

Smells like this

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