Sel de Vétiver The Different Company 2006

Great art. Often, vetiver provides the necessary grounding, but here it presents itself completely differently. It almost seems as if it has turned its back on its dark existence, shaped by roots and small creatures, and decided to showcase itself in airy, summer-infused lightness from now on.

Sel de Vétiver starts with a very pleasant, subtly citrus-alcoholic note that completely omits any sour hints. Even now, the sophisticated overall concept of the fragrance is revealed; more suggestions are served than unequivocal certainties. A balsamic tone caresses the nose without fully disclosing which hesperidic ingredients are responsible for this wonderful olfactory experience.

The smooth transition into the heart note ensures that the vetiver is noticeable after a relatively short time. What is astonishing, however, is how buoyantly the dry grass is integrated here. Crisp, dusty, with slightly leathery nuances, it unfolds its charm, while the fragrance and wearer seem to float three feet above the ground. This is certainly also due to the fantastic salty note. The Different Company perfectly evokes late summer holiday associations: one strolls lightly, almost entranced, through dune landscapes, the air is salty and clear. At times gentle, at times strong breezes brush against the body. The sun is still strong enough to warm during the day, but for the afternoon hours, it is advisable to have something long-sleeved on hand...

In the dry down, the airy-dry spectrum is expanded with mild fruity notes. Here too, subtlety is the measure of all things. Vanilla and iris weave only a light veil into the spherical overall picture. Sel de Vétiver always remains extremely close to me, creating a refreshing tension arc. The fragrance morsels that sporadically reach the nose either jolt one abruptly out of daydreams or inspire them. The only aspect that offers potential for improvement is the longevity of the fragrance, although I must also admit that it is pure joy to reapply Sel de Vétiver, thus prolonging the state of blissful detachment a little longer.