Falcon Leather Matière Première 2019 Eau de Parfum

Not far from my hometown, nestled in a picturesque landscape, lies an old and traditional falconry. Deep in the forest, hidden from the outside world and the curious eyes of people, rests the old homestead. Only a few know of the existence of this establishment, and that is how it should be. For this is a special breeding station for falcons and rare birds of prey. More specifically, this falconry trains the majestic animals for the wealthy sheikhs of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. A clientele for whom money is certainly no object…

To prepare the shy animals for hunting and the extraordinary demands of the desert states, absolute tranquility is required. Therefore, visits to the falconry are generally not possible, and the remote location in the forest is absolutely necessary. This forest area is used by the falconers to teach the animals how to hunt. But do not worry, as a private property, the official permit is merely a formality.
How did I come to enjoy the rare privilege of visiting this fascinating establishment? Ultimately, professional circumstances opened the door for me to spend an afternoon enjoying the fantastic atmosphere there and watching the falconers at work.

Upon entering the grounds, a magical atmosphere prevails! The old golden eagle, powerful and majestic, sits on a large rock, greeting me with piercing and razor-sharp gazes. Impressive not only is the size of the bird, but the fact that it is in NO cage is almost frightening. It considers the estate its home, its territory, sometimes taking a round in the forest and returning on its own - fascinating.
As I continue, I encounter the wise snowy owl. As I pass her enclosure, she curiously turns her head, almost a full circle, to ensure she does not lose sight of me, emitting mysterious sounds as if warning the others of my presence.
Shortly thereafter, we reach the enclosures of the falcons, and here begins the olfactory journey on the wings of the incredibly successful "Falcon Leather" from the house of Matière Première.

At the outset, Falcon Leather indeed reminds me of the atmosphere in the falconers' enclosures. With a slightly sharp and piercing note, similar to the aura present in the cage, the bird of prey welcomes you and takes you on a journey. This somewhat harsh beginning, inspired by birch tar, is flanked and controlled by saffron, creating an extremely harmonious symbiosis of both elements. For neither does the birch tar become too smoky dominant, nor does the saffron take the upper hand. Thus, beautifully balanced parallels emerge to Tuscan Leather, as well as the very successful Vert Gothique.
Relatively quickly, the main theme is established. The falconer's glove is to be the focal point, and an incredibly smooth and delicately crafted leather note impressively develops. How exactly the glove of a falconer smells, I cannot say, despite my experiences. But this combination of the initial sharpness, in conjunction with the softly tanned leather, is truly remarkable. Breathtaking how the ingredients used here, labdanum and Siam benzoin, create a beautiful light-resinous, warm-soft illumination. The leather is consistently pushed to the forefront, creating an effect as if the glove wraps around you like a second skin, making room for the return of the falcon circling in the sky. It should be noted that throughout, it is a very soft and accessible leather. As if the falcon has kneaded it soft and elastic with its claws and countless landings.
This progression remains relatively linear in my perception. It may become a bit more resinous in the dry down, and a slightly sweet facet can also be noted.
The falcon itself circles in the sky for many hours and has very good longevity. The surrounding olfactory aura is at all times beyond any doubt and simply beautiful.
For me, Falcon Leather definitely belongs to the highlights of 2021. Although currently still used based on samples, nothing stands in the way of purchasing a bottle.
For this is almost a Millennium Falcon…

May the Force be with you!