Le Jardin de Monsieur Li Hermès 2015

Le Jardin de Monsieur Li is the result of an intense journey to China by Ellena, which taught him the olfactory secrets of this enchanting country. A garden between reality and fantasy, a place for meditation and reflection. The same can be said for the perfume itself - for Le Jardin de Monsieur Li is a bit more extravagant than the usual bouquets. The composition seems quite simple, yet upon closer smelling, it reveals its true essence. Bitter kumquat and sweet jasmine balance each other out, while a hint of mint adds a spritz that is meant to evoke the cooling dampness after a monsoon. Initially, my nose felt somewhat underwhelmed by the few ingredients. One searches in vain for a fragrance pyramid consisting of top, heart, and base notes, which is actually a European tradition. A subtle citrus veil envelops the wearer (who, in my opinion, can easily be of a masculine nature) and surrounds them with a confusing aura. The surroundings will not inevitably think of perfume when the bitter kumquat notes waft into their noses, yet this creation is certainly striking. Refreshing like a summer rain, calm like a white linen dress, and always fitting like a striped Breton shirt. An androgynous homage to summer lightness, made for minimalists and lovers of a discreet sillage.