Shanghai 1930 Astrophil & Stella 2023
1
A Cup Full of Calm and Serenity
The name Shanghai 1930 may raise expectations that the fragrance only partially fulfills. Instead of an exotic, opulent interpretation of Shanghai, this scent reminds me of a quiet tea-drinking moment in the garden, surrounded by blooming flowers. A moment of slowing down, accompanied by a delicate milk tea with a hint of sweetness. Shanghai reveals itself from a tranquil side.
At the beginning, one perceives a gentle bergamot that brings a light freshness to the fragrance. However, after just a few moments, the green tea note comes to the forefront. It is softly enveloped by white flowers, which lend the scent a milky softness reminiscent of creamy milk tea or matcha latte. This creamy texture gives the fragrance a relaxed, almost soothing character, without being heavy or overloaded.
Interestingly, the fruity nuances remain rather subtle in the background. They seem to support the creaminess rather than push themselves to the forefront. If one wishes to say so, the green tea is fruitier and not quite as bitter. I particularly appreciate that the white flowers do not have a strong floral character but instead act as a creamy, lactonic accent that perfectly blends with the green tea note. It has, of course, that floral touch from the jasmine, but the jasmine, like the other flowers, is rather subordinate. Towards the end, a veil of milky steam lingers close to the body.
In conclusion, it can be said that Shanghai 1930 is a light, clean fragrance that radiates a pleasant softness through its milky tea composition. The scent is not particularly profound but follows a straightforward progression, making it both unexciting and harmonious.
I understand why some perceive the fragrance as reserved - the name Shanghai 1930 indeed raises expectations of something wicked or complex. The bottle, on the other hand, could reflect this gentle and pure essence more accurately with its appearance, resembling a delicately painted porcelain cup. Nevertheless, I do not agree with the comments that label it as "fabric softener," as the creamy and clear tea base stands out for me.
At the beginning, one perceives a gentle bergamot that brings a light freshness to the fragrance. However, after just a few moments, the green tea note comes to the forefront. It is softly enveloped by white flowers, which lend the scent a milky softness reminiscent of creamy milk tea or matcha latte. This creamy texture gives the fragrance a relaxed, almost soothing character, without being heavy or overloaded.
Interestingly, the fruity nuances remain rather subtle in the background. They seem to support the creaminess rather than push themselves to the forefront. If one wishes to say so, the green tea is fruitier and not quite as bitter. I particularly appreciate that the white flowers do not have a strong floral character but instead act as a creamy, lactonic accent that perfectly blends with the green tea note. It has, of course, that floral touch from the jasmine, but the jasmine, like the other flowers, is rather subordinate. Towards the end, a veil of milky steam lingers close to the body.
In conclusion, it can be said that Shanghai 1930 is a light, clean fragrance that radiates a pleasant softness through its milky tea composition. The scent is not particularly profound but follows a straightforward progression, making it both unexciting and harmonious.
I understand why some perceive the fragrance as reserved - the name Shanghai 1930 indeed raises expectations of something wicked or complex. The bottle, on the other hand, could reflect this gentle and pure essence more accurately with its appearance, resembling a delicately painted porcelain cup. Nevertheless, I do not agree with the comments that label it as "fabric softener," as the creamy and clear tea base stands out for me.
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