Impossible Iris Ramón Monegal 2010

Why I only received a sample of Ramon Monegal's "Impossible Iris" after explicitly requesting a monothematic iris fragrance, I do not know - but it undeniably has its advantages: I can test the scent without time pressure and get familiar with it repeatedly. Above all, I avoid being dazzled by a possibly particularly successful top note, which is then followed by dull boredom.

Of course, this Impossible Iris is once again one of those fragrances that drive my testicles into a rage (see my comment on Sel de Vetiver). This time, "girl's crap" is still the most harmless of the crude comments they bestow upon the scent. The occasional threat of a strike is also made. I can't completely disagree with the testicles: This impossible iris does seem very feminine to me - perhaps even too feminine for me to wear.

This is highly unfortunate, as my nose is currently celebrating quite a successful party with Monegal's fragrance. It truly boasts a beautiful top note - and maintains that level.

"Impossible Iris" celebrates the iris from an unusual perspective, without robbing it of its central characteristics. It is powdery as always, but also shows us an almost fleshy side. It is the acacia that gives the somewhat lofty iris a voluptuous physicality - this is how cleanliness turns sexy. I cannot confirm that the raspberry is hiding; I mainly perceive a sweet-sour hint at the beginning. However, it does not establish any fruitiness; I literally perceive it as grounding the otherwise rocket-like launching cream-white bouquet.

How well jasmine and iris complement each other has already been recognized by other perfumers; Monegal's achievement is that he does not even attempt to reinvent this tried-and-true combination. Lush and delicate at the same time, the soft jasmine aroma dims the occasionally aggressive iris note. Ylang-ylang rounds it off with sensual creaminess and ensures that the fragrance retains its brilliance. The result is a luminous floral accord without any false sweetness. Very elegant and initially almost unnoticed, a bright cedar eventually blends into this accord. Its woody note remains understated but present.

Monegal's composition is airy, but by no means fleeting; its longevity is in the good medium range. An overpowering sillage would contradict the charmingly playful character of the fragrance; instead, it possesses a particularly fine skin-close presence.

You are a wonderful creation, you impossible iris - it's a pity that I have trouble imagining you on a man - specifically: on me. But I am drawn to you, your floral curves, your radiant spirit, your self-forgetful glow; who knows, maybe we will still find each other.