Bois Impérial Essential Parfums 2020 Eau de Parfum

Perfume lovers can generally be divided into two factions: some prefer fresh scents, while others appreciate darker or gourmand fragrances. The distinction is not always clear-cut, but most people do show a certain tendency. Personally, I love fresh, citrusy, and fruity fragrances. The problem, however, is that a significant portion of these scents has become far too similar, leading to a lack of uniqueness. Be it the classic Aventus DNA or the so-called "Blue Fragrances" with woody-spicy notes alongside citrus freshness.

Bois Impérial, however, brings color and a fresh breeze into this monotony. Do you know the feeling when you try a dish from a cuisine that is completely foreign to you, and your taste buds are hit by flavors you didn't even know existed? That's exactly how I felt when I first smelled Bois Impérial.

Even though the fragrance pyramid might not suggest it directly, in my opinion, this is a new type of freshie. The reason for this is obvious: it is a combination of several synthetic components. Many associate synthetics with something negative, as it is no longer "natural." But essentially, nothing different is happening here than in nature: from small components, new components with new properties emerge. Nature is the master of synthetics, which we try to imitate or even surpass, which is why I am a strong advocate of "synthetic" fragrance notes.

The scent starts (as it should) very citrusy with grapefruit. However, it quickly develops into a pleasant woody-soapy direction. In the dry down, a patchouli note can be detected, which is not too overpowering compared to other patchouli fragrances and is well integrated into the overall picture of the scent. This also gives Bois Impérial excellent longevity and sillage.

My advice in conclusion: Don't be put off by the synthetics. Those who do will miss out on a great and unique freshie with an outstanding price/performance ratio.