Secret Smelling 2016 - Jean-Christophe Hérault IFF International Flavors & Fragrances 2016

This scent reflects on the joyous moments of my childhood, evoking a sense of comfort that effortlessly draws a smile. The rich, dark chocolate notes of patchouli mingle with the delicate, creamy sweetness of caramel, reminiscent of the simple joys in life—like the happiness found in savoring a sweet treat, a universal pleasure that transcends age. While I don't hold memories of a chocolate caramel stick wrapped in a yellow wrapper with a joke printed on it — a memory that served as Jean-Christophe Hérault's inspiration—I can join the perfumer in his reverie through this scent.

According to the perfumer Jean-Christophe Hérault, this fragrance is a journey through the cherished whimsy of innocence. Created with the finest naturals by Laboratoire Monique Rémy (LMR, a part of IFF), it includes iris concrete, ambrette absolute, patchouli, and vetiver, with the addition of Ambertonic, an IFF captive molecule that combines the aspects of amber, musk, and wood.

The caramel sweetness of ethyl maltol and the presence of heavy modern ambery woody molecules could potentially be overwhelming for sensitive noses, yet they are perfectly tempered here. The scent behaves like a warm, comforting woolen sweater, sitting intimately close to the skin, enveloping the wearer in a soft embrace.