Monk Michael Storer 2005

When thinking of perfumes from the USA, one usually thinks of the mass-market scents from Calvin Klein, Donna Karan, or Tommy Hilfiger. However, since I’ve been hanging around this forum, I’ve been pleasantly surprised to discover that from the land of supposed unlimited possibilities also come fragrances that can easily compete with French and Italian creations and truly deserve the label of niche fragrance.

One of these creative minds is the L.A.-based perfumer Michael Storer. Unfortunately, the website doesn’t reveal much about the life of the man behind the brand. When I have a bit more time, I’ll try to find out more about him.

I must admit that the name "Monk" has evoked very specific expectations in me. In my mind's eye, I imagine the damp and dark cellar vaults, like those found in the Eberbach Monastery in Hesse. Many know these vaults from the film "Name of the Rose".

The opening accord captivates with very cool and intense smoky notes and a slightly bitter galbanum note. Although birch tar is listed in the base, I have the impression of detecting a hint of tar in the top notes. The top note lasts about 30 minutes, at the end of which a restrained sweetness introduces the heart note.
I can hardly distinguish individual notes here. A waxy and resinous impression is dominant in this fragrance. Even the incense is very subtly dosed.

The base then develops very deep and lush. The scent now presents itself as both oriental and, in a truly trendy way, unmodern, or as one likes to say today, vintage! Whether this is really how the Middle Ages smelled, I dare to doubt. However, the theme has been implemented very well and, above all, wearably in this fragrance.

Looking at the type and richness of the ingredients, one is reminded of the voluminous scents of the 1920s and 30s of the last century. And those who know such creations understand that there was a different understanding of fragrance back then. One must be willing to engage with such creations and be prepared to truly work on a perfume. The words "ora et labora" take on a whole new meaning!

Now for my bittersweet note. Until three weeks ago, I could have gotten this gem for half the price at a Munich perfumery. I resisted the impulse to order the scent blindly. Well, those who don’t dare, don’t win.