Velvet Iris

If Essential Parfums was content to offer simple, high-quality fragrances at a great value, surely we'd be content with that also- but thank goodness they have higher ambitions than that. Velvet Iris is the latest example of just how lofty those ambitions truly are- an elegant and complex unisex leather featuring an exquisitely deep, multifaceted orris layered with unique aromatic green notes, this masterful creation from the legendary Dominique Ropion stands tall beside some of our favorite iris creations of all time. A vibrant, intoxicatingly verdant opening showcases a sophisticated collection of bright, bitter green notes, drawing out the woodsier and drier facets of a gorgeous, generous dose of real orris, which also showcases a gently sweet powdery aspect that blends perfectly with the delicate resins in the leather and sandalwood base. Were an iris fragrance this magical to come from any of the venerable old guard of luxury fragrance, with a price to match, we'd still say it was a must-try, but from Essential Parfums? It's the easiest decision you've ever made.