Countdown day 10

On the 10th day of our Christmas fragrance countdown, my true love gave to me...... Snow and Sludge. I need comfort and warmth, and possibly a coffee. Luckily I have just the fragrance, from a rather under appreciated house. Parfumerie Generale are responsible for some wonderful gems and this is perhaps at the top of their list. Coze (2002) comes from the master and founder Pierre Guillaume The name Coze is an abbreviation of the french " C'est Ose" meaning "this is daring". Well, why not? We open with an arousing Indian Hemp and Patchouli combo. It has a marvellous effect of giving us spice and smoke and yet something damp and earthy at the same time. I am sure it will take some of the more wise among you back to a certain decade, or maybe even last week, who knows? It is a fantastic opening and from this moment on, you know you are in for a treat. Following close behind to keep things perky is a shot of Espresso, not the Starbucks kind. Think Monmouth with no queue. As the first strains fade, we are enlivened again, this time with a Pink Pepper riding on back of the Hemp. It keeps the energy levels high, and teaches me to be patient. There is plenty of time to melt back in the armchair later. The next thing to hit my nose is a dark chocolate with a tiny hint of Chilli. It is creamy and piquant at the same time. It adds the first layer of warmth that invites you in out of the cold, and following the opening blast is just what we need. The base of this fragrance goes on forever, and seamlessly transitions from the Chocolate, adding a good dose of Blonde Tobacco. This again provides great structure, as we have a relative of the Hemp in the opening. This gives a sense of depth and coherence. Coming on the back of this is the ultimate winter warmer, a rich and boozy Vanilla. The booze in question is a good dose of Bourbon. Neat, of course. All this seems to sit contented on a bed of Cedar and Sandalwood, which add yet more elegance and all important creaminess. The blend and the concept here is fantastic, and is comfort personified. The way this fragrance goes through its journey of opening with big smoky spice and earth notes, to its creamy heart right through to its melting luxurious base is another joyfully immersive fragrance experience. When I first wore this, I was on a train up north, and I couldn't stop smelling my wrists. People thought I was mad, and yes, I was. But mad and wearing Coze is fine by me. So, if you are too far from a pub or coffee shop, and need immediate shelter from the elements, or you just want to smell a little magical, give it a try. I would let you try mine, but Joey doesn't share Coze!

Happy smelling. J xxx