L'Eau des Hespérides Diptyque 2008

In Greek mythology, the Hesperides were nymphs of the evening who were meant to represent the light of sunsets. They have historically been depicted as delicate and beautiful women, oftentimes found near a sort of fruit tree in a lavishly depicted countryside. I think this fragrance represents this historical depiction well. L'Eau des Hespérides is a very supple and gentle fragrance that is immensely fresh, yet feels warm, like the evening sun is beating down on your skin on a hot summer's evening. The notes of peppermint and bitter orange are the most prominent here, which give it that aforementioned freshness. However, the immortelle is present as well, giving a bit of a gentle touch to a fragrance that could otherwise been seen as a bit harsh. The fragrance doesn't dive much deeper than this, but it accurately depicts a pastoral scene of the Hesperides that can be seen in many renaissance era paintings of the titular figures.

For what it is, I feel that Diptyque has done well to capture a very specific feeling with this fragrance. I like to think of this fragrance as a citrus "freshie" for someone who is looking for something a bit more alternative than a run of the mill fresh scent. It stands out from the crowd because of this, and adds to why I enjoy it so. I normally tend to avoid fresh fragrances in general, as I feel they can be a bit underwhelming or pedestrian, but L'Eau des Hespérides is most certainly an exception.