Carlisle Parfums de Marly 2015

I ordered my first sample of Carlisle, as an afterthought: a second-hand sample obtained for a discounted price, where I had no intention of ever purchasing a full bottle as I already owned Herod from the house. As such, my first encounter was devoid of expectation. My first impression could be characterized as... familiar. The amalgamation of notes created a sensation that was well-known to me, and no particular facet of the composition struck me as interesting. It reminded me of a gentle, smooth brown. Brown in its surface connotation to chocolate. Brown in its suggestion to the fall season. Brown in its reminiscent quality to the ordinary. No masterpiece to say the least.

As I had no expectations from the scent, I wore it liberally and consistently, taking no quarrel with running through my sample. My friends mirrored my own reaction, reinforcing my first impression. A shoulder shrug accompanied with "yea it"s good". For 2 weeks the scent was my companion, through long days, and easy days. The description of a companion is apt, as throughout its wearing Carlisle does have a tremendous presence, even in the cold. And so over time, the resolution of Carlisle sharpened.

My conception of the plain brown canvas focused to unveil the play present all along. Damp wet soil lays the foundation for the background, built upon with subtle resins. The vanilla illuminates the foreground, in which streaks of bitter green apple dance across the stage. The nutmeg does little to make its voice heard and is only differentiable by the most attentive listeners, nonetheless is inseparable from the rest of the piece. The climax never comes, although I find myself never waiting for it. Each segment of the piece stands on its own feet. The progression of Carlisle is a long and steady one, with the most impatient audience members becoming disinterested. Those willing to stick around and stay attentive leave intrigued and satisfied.

I first noticed my love for the scent, when I stood waiting out in the open. A cool gust of wind approached letting Carlisle waft by my nose. In a comical fashion, I closed my eyes and let my attention dance from note to note. The scent no longer felt familiar like the feeling a hit song on the radio might induce but rather familiar like the wry smile of a trusted friend.

In hindsight, I doubt there is any possible way I could have gained the understanding that I have of the composition now, on that first day. As such, I would recommend you to wear even your most mundane samples. The process of testing fragrances by simply spraying them once on your wrist is about as successful, as initial compliments are indicative of your enjoyment of a scent. I would also emphasize the importance of approaching a new sample without any expectation, as was the case here.

From my experience, Carlisle will be a favorite for those close to you, and one that grows on those spending more time with you. I ended up buying another sample relatively quickly, after which I subsequently purchased a full bottle. Carlisle has steadily grown to become one of my most violent fragrance loves.