Countdown day 21

Day 21 of our Christmas Fragrance Countdown and we are moving into the final and perhaps most special fragrances in this list, though they are not really in any order. Today we have our first meeting with the house of Amouage, and what a meeting it is. If you love to be challenged by bold and biblical smells, look no further. This is a house known for their Middle Eastern wonders, and they are the opposite end of the spectrum from shy and easy going. You have been warned! Interlude Man (2012) is from perfumer Pierre Negrin, and represents one of the great benchmarks in modern perfumery. It is what we in the fragrance community often refer to as Nuclear, or Beast Mode. This American Hyperbole is perhaps not the right context, for if I was to place Interlude anywhere in the world, it would be a couple of thousand years ago in the oppressive heat of a desert, full of war and unknowns. We open with an arresting blast of, wait for it, Oregano. It is dry and acrid and feels scorched in the most wonderful way. We also have a good dose of Bergamot which keeps that little ray of light. It is such a striking opening that your nose will take all the time it needs before the beautiful resinous heart becomes apparent. This middle is composed of a stunning Amber, Sweet and Savoury and full of body. We also have further depth with Oponax, bringing its healing Balsamic solace. It is the balm to the violence of the opening burnt flesh and smoke! The base is a mind boggling Leather and Oud combo. The leather again being smoky and almost meaty. It is a structural marvel, being linked to the the glorious scorched opening. The oud lends its medicinal and barnyard facets together. They are overwhelming. To balance the flame and danger is the warmth and creamed Sandalwood, and damp and acrid Patchouli. I am not going to write anymore, words cannot express the beauty and fire of this marvel. It is uncompromising and heartbreakingly powerful. Try it and tell me Perfume is an accessory for your bathroom. Happy Smelling. J xxx