Tamara De Lempicka Jeune Fille Au Chale Polonais, 1933 We are fortunate that Mandy has a reserve of vintage essences for such purposes. The pleasure lingers throughout Aftelier Perfumes Alchemy’s development. Base notes appear deceptively simple the caliber of materials reveals once again how critical they are to the unfolding of this perfume. Benzoin sings a vanilla-cinnamon balsamic tone its excellent fixative capacity interlaces with the dark-hued deliciousness of leathery labdanum (a favorite substance, right up there with oakmoss), gently rounded by the sort of vanilla absolute which is becoming increasingly more difficult to source these days. I’ve created any number of dishes over the years to delight my loved ones including rose-infused crème brûlée tart, jasmine poundcake enrobed in dark chocolate, Caribbean mocha cake with ylang ylang whipped cream as garnish – to name but a few.) The florals weave in and out as lace-making bobbins do – first one, then another with dazzling sleight-of-hand. You are awash in heady radiance with no desire to absent yourself from this trio thanks to their longevity, you won’t have to. Soon voluptuous florals make their presence felt: Turkish rose to swoon over, extravagant jasmine and the butteriest ylang ylang (for those with imagination, these are available as chef’s essences.

And hopefully no antidote, either.Īftelier Perfumes Alchemy romances us with a zesty introduction of piquant spice and a generous dose of citrus fit to make the palate water in anticipation it amazes what the presence of frequently utilized and beloved materials are capable of in the hands of a master. You are compelled to lean in. As is the case with all Aftelier perfumes, quality is paramount: Mandy never stints on aromatic components – they are each unerringly satisfying as a fine repast lovingly prepared and composed. If one is a novice to the realm of natural perfumery, Alchemy will ensure your conversion as a true believer.

I remember Mandy Aftel’s Alchemy with great affection ten years ago I reviewed the original solid fragrance and feel honored to revisit it as a limited edition perfume. It’s a joy to relate that Aftelier Perfumes Alchemy has lost none of its lyricism in the olfactory retelling. Mandy Aftel of Aftelier Perfumes for CaFleureBon©

Essence and alchemy by mandy aftel