Iris 39
Iris 39 by Le Labo is an unisex eau de parfum from 2006 in the niche price tier. It opens with iris, orris root and cardamom, moves into jasmine, patchouli and civet and dries down to musk, oakmoss and incense. Expect around 8 hours of wear, and it projects at a moderate level.
Notes, explained
Opening
- Iris Cool, powdery, slightly carroty and expensive. The luxury note.
- Orris Root Iris root aged for years. Buttery, powdery, unmistakably refined.
- Cardamom Cool, aromatic spice with a eucalyptus lift. Smells expensive.
Heart
- Jasmine Heady, sweet and slightly animal underneath. Rarely subtle.
- Patchouli Damp earth and dark chocolate. Either you love it or it's your least favourite note.
- Civet Sharp, faecal and intense on its own. In trace amounts it makes florals glow.
Dry-down
- Musk Warm, skin-like and slightly sweet. Makes a fragrance feel like you.
- Oakmoss Damp forest floor. Bitter, green and the backbone of every chypre.
- Incense Smoky, dry and meditative. Adds gravity to anything.
Smells like this
- Serge Lutens La Religieuse
- Masque Milano Luci ed Ombre
- Dior Gris Dior
- Nishane Hacivat
- Maison Alhambra Jean Lowe Ombre
- Tom Ford Ombré Leather
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