Spicy Scents, Release Me

Good God, it’s Spring already and still I am clinging to spicy scents. There is Arabie, a lover that I have been waiting for for many years. Its initial cumin was sharp and offensive. This was my first venture into Lutens, you see, and to start with Arabie was a mistake. But I have been dreaming about it and finally decided to own it. Now that I am older, the spice/sugar/fruit of its Arabian market is just right. It’s one you have to mature into, I guess.

The other duo of scents that have been fascinating me is the very scrumptious Loukhoum and Kashmir Spice by Ava Luxe. These can be used simultaneously or alone, as well as layered with other perfumes.

Those familiar with Turkish delight will know the fruity/powdery/nutty deliciousness of loukhoum perfumes. Serge Lutens nails the fruity part with his rare Rahat Loukoum. Keiko Mecheri built one confection upon another with her triad of Loukhoum, Loukhoum Eau Poudree and Loukoum Parfum du Soir. The powdered sugar is perfectly captured in her creations.

Well, the almond nuttiness of the delightful sweet is perfectly contained in Ava Luxe's Loukhoum perfume. I ordered the extrait to ensure that I have the most yummy experience of all, and it certainly did that for me. The sweetness is pleasant while the nuttiness is unusual and gives body to the perfume. Is there a hint of rose? I am not sure, but it is somewhat flowery and a bit powdery, in a good way. The lasting power is above par.

Kashmir Spice is a similarly decadent experience with sweet spices reminiscent of a saffron pudding times ten.

I love the Iranian rice pudding called Sholeh Zard, which is full of slivered almonds, pistachios, saffron and cinnamon. Kashmir Spice and Loukhoum remind me of this comforting dessert, mixed up together, enjoyed any time of the year. Spicy scents, you are delicious.