Earl Grey Angela Flanders 1994 Eau de Parfum

A good cup of black tea is one of the countless little joys of everyday life. For me, preferably strong and pure, meaning without sugar or milk. And ideally crowned by the spicy-floral citrus aroma of bergamot, perfect!

Of course, "Earl Grey" by Angela Flanders does not authentically smell like a cup of Earl Grey tea, yet what makes a good Earl Grey tea so appealing has been beautifully captured. Both fragrances share bergamot and a dark richness. However, in the spray fragrance, the latter is not represented by black tea notes, but rather by rosewood, spices, and patchouli.

Angela Flanders herself describes her fragrance as an elegant, dry, and warm chypre. That can stand as is, even though I often have issues with the word "elegant" and what is sometimes understood by it, but then I simply translate elegant as stylish.

All listed ingredients are clearly recognizable, with the spice clove being the most prominent among the spices, yet subtle and without being intrusive. The bergamot is juicy and gives the fragrance a refreshing zest through its continuous presence until the end, which excellently complements the warming spiciness. The rosewood makes the fragrance more noble, finer, while the patchouli adds depth. A fragrance with old-fashioned charm, without appearing outdated. I would like to mention that I have the Eau de Parfum, not the Eau de Toilette.

The fragrances of Angela Flanders are commendably not categorized into women's and men's fragrances; many of her scents are also very popular among men. However, some fragrances are marked as suitable for both genders, including "Earl Grey," quite rightly, in my opinion.

The lovely little shop of Angela Flanders (where she is often present) in the Shoreditch district of London has remarkable opening hours, namely only on Sundays from 10:00 to 15:30. But you can combine a visit there with the "Columbia Road Flower Market" taking place right outside the door, which is indeed a delightful way to spend your time.

I think I now need a nice cup of Earl Grey tea!