Onsen Minerale Cult of Kaori 2023

This is a long-overdue proper sampling and review of Cult of Kaori Onsen Minerale, one of the house’s first two releases in its late 2023 debut (along with Melon Masu). For those that don’t know, Cult of Kaori was founded by owner/perfumer Chris Undi, local to Philadelphia, with inspiration from his experiences in Japan. Onsen Minerale takes its name from Japanese hot springs sometimes used for bathing, and the notes of this fresh, deep creation include some of the natural elements that coincide with the onsen, including a robust freshwater/steam accord, lychee, mandarin, and hinoki wood, among others, a fulfilling experience that has a dry drydown while also being an immersive freshwater-reminiscent journey. It has the cleanness and natural smells of a spa without the human element, an intersection of woods, citruses, and water that’s positively therapeutic, and it’s no wonder why the reception to this fragrance has been so glowing in the months since its release. Additionally, it has rich quality and very good performance, particularly for a fragrance that that shines because of its fresh and natural aspects.

Both fragrances in the Cult of Kaori line are priced at $220 for 50ml and sold via the house site and boutiques like Perfumology, at 25% concentration, generally equivalent to a parfum/extrait.

8 out of 10