Guerlinade Guerlain 1998

Guerlinade is quite the rarity, and I am lucky to have obtained a bottle at all. It is a shame it is so rare; it is really one of the best lilac fragrances I've ever tested.

The opening is juicy, delicious bergamot, citrus, and linden blossom. I have never smelled a fragrance that literally made my mouth water until this one. The lilac begins to show itself, fresh and joyous! It's a great rendition of the note - not too rubbery or smokey, and not at all reminiscent of floor cleaner. Just a delicately powdery, juicy dewy lilac. As the scent wears longer, the lilac begins to shift into Guerlinade territory (Which is good, considering the name!). Sweet woody undertones come to the fore with a delicate amber, resting on a delightfully light finish.

It's really quite a lovely and refreshing experience - the opening is almost drinkable in its juicy delicious wonder. As with many other Guerlain limited editions, the quality is immediately recognizable. It's a tragedy this didn't stay around longer, but at least I have enough to delight in whenever I please. As an EDP, it is very tenacious and has the delicate, perfect sillage I've learned to expect from Guerlain. The only con is the obvious rarity and the associated expense.