Virgilio

Virgilio seems to be a forgotten beauty from Diptyque that quietly ceased production several years ago. Released in 1990, it seems to be one of the last from the era of Diptyque that focused on naturalistic and minimalistic creations centered around realist ambience, whether it be spices, herbs, or florals. The golden years of Diptyque, as it were (L'Eau Trois, L'Autre, L'Ombre Dans L'eau, Eau Lente and the like). It opens with this radiant, somewhat minty herbal, that immediately comes to mind the sweet basil essential oil and absolute that I have in my perfumer's organ; concentrated green sweetness that you can almost taste. I've always had a fondness for it, but have only found basil as more of a supporting note in fragrances. Here, however, it takes center stage, at least in the opening, but then is accompanied by crunchy, woody, herbaceous caraway, which harmonizes quite beautifully with the basil. The two sing unadorned by spiky, voluminous synthetics that are ubiquitous in more recent fragrances. There is almost an aromatherapeutic quality to Virgilio that mellows me while wearing it. This simmers on the skin for a few hours until it subsides in a bed of soft vetiver and cedar, which makes for a brilliant progression in the dry down, as these two woody notes really extend the effect of the basil and caraway almost seamlessly. Somehow, what is left is a green, woody castile soap effect that is ever so pleasant and soothing. This is classic Diptyque, before the age of woody ambers, Ambroxan, and Iso E Super. How refreshing... Yet how sad that it apparently wasn't a seller for them, or perhaps it was too expensive to produce. Whatever the case, it is a wonderful, yet bittersweet discovery that continues to put my fragrance exploring journey into perspective.

This is really lovely if you are into fresh, herbally scents. I was a bit worried seeing basil listed as dominant. On me the caraway, basil, vetiver and woods are equal. Nothing dominates. Vetiver can be a strong earthy note but thankfully its very key here. There is nothing harsh and strident. I get why people speak of a mint aspect to this. Yes, it is there but it doesnt smell like a tube of toothpaste. Its quite soft and lovely. Moderate longevity and sillage which was surprising considering the basil and caraway. Most definitely a unisex scent.

This stuff is amazing! This was a blind buy for me and some reviews made me concerned. Since this perfume is discontinued, getting a sample is a problem, so I took a chance. I am so happy I did! It is so natural and green, I cannot stop smelling my wrist. It smells like a summer forest and I always seek fragrances like this. Perfect for aromatherapy. It somewhat reminded me Serge Lutens Chypre Rouge, apparently because of caraway note which is quite prominent. Vetiver is also strong. Despite just a few notes, it is a complex scent. Love!!!

Incredibly green fresh soapy basil. Gives the same fresh feel that a pine bubblebath gives off, if these bubblebaths came in basil version ;) Beautifully herbally clean scent. The Clean series have found their superior in this one, big time! The herbal with the basil grows stronger and stronger to the point of being "basil-y camphorous" in the end. A must for summer :)

I miss these lovely nature inspired, minimalist fragrances from Diptyque. Please bring them back.