Atelier Cologne Bergamote Soleil and Blanche Immortelle review
Every now and then I like to treat myself to some fine fragrance, and I was interested to see that Atelier Cologne had created several new perfume releases for 2016. In particular, their Bergamote Soleil cologne absolue caught my eye, as it’s a unisex product that’s designed for warmer weather and it features my favourite citrus note. I also had the chance to try out their Blanche Immortelle perfume for women, so I’m going to review that here too.
Bergamote Soleil review
Atelier Cologne are well known for creating unusual and well-crafted citrus scents, and this really is like high summer in a bottle, based around central notes of refreshing, juicy bergamot.
- Top notes: Calabrian bergamot, bitter orange, ambrette
- Middle notes: Egyptian jasmine, Provencal lavender and Guatemalan cardamom
- Base notes: Haitian vetiver, oak moss and white amber
It’s very zesty, and is a truly unisex perfume with a nicely sophisticated edge to it. Beau and I have both tried it out, and it smells a bit more herbal on him and slightly more floral on me, lasting over eight hours.
Unlike most bergamot fragrances, the main note stays strong all through the dry down, bolstered by the bitter orange (AKA Seville orange, the stuff the best marmalade is made out of). I also get oakmoss and grassy vetiver, rounding this composition out beautifully. I can’t wait to wear it on a really hot, sunny day, because I think this will really bring the Bergamote Soleil into its element.
This might be Atelier Cologne’s big hit of the summer, and I can see it being very popular among fans of cult fragrances.
Blanche Immortelle review
This is a very unusual niche fragrance for women, and it’s described as ‘oriental floral’ although I’d also say that it slightly edges into a light gourmand too. This is one of those scents that either really suits you or it doesn’t, and fortunately I found that it sits well on my skin.
- Top notes: mimosa, mandarin orange and calabrian bergamot
- Middle notes: immortelle flower, jasmine sambac and turkish rose
- Base notes: patchouli, vetiver and australian sandalwood
The first couple of minutes are a little strange as the citrus fades out and settles, then the immortelle and mimosa come to the forefront. It’s sweet and, floral and has touches of hay and herbs in it, along with an interesting trace of slightly dusty bitterness that keeps the sweetness from being over the top.
When the base notes come out, you also get some woody notes, a lovely honey-caramel note, and warm spices. It lasts strongly for several hours like this, and I find it quite lovely and feminine. I’d also say it edges towards cooler weather wear, so chilly Spring evenings seem to be working well.
It’s definitely unique, so it’s one to try before making a purchase. You’re unlikely to bump into too many other people who wear it, so if it suits your skin chemistry and personal taste it could work as a signature fragrance.
Atelier Cologne fragrances are available at John Lewis, Harvey Nichols and Selfridges.
