Mandragore Pourpre

With a name like Mandragore Pourpre, one might expect a dark, gothic, or overly mysterious perfume. However, the reality is quite different; it's a work of great subtlety. Here, the Mandragore root functions more as an idea than a raw material, resulting in a spicy, aromatic, and slightly earthy composition where bergamot, mint, and star anise provide a vibrant and refreshing opening, while black pepper introduces a dry and elegant tension from the very beginning, with a distinctly French refinement. Citrus perfumes have never been my first choice for a refreshing summer fragrance; however, Mandragore Pourpre fulfills its purpose perfectly for me. It has the luminosity and cooling effect I look for on warm days, but adds an unusual complexity that prevents it from falling into the simplicity of many summer colognes. What fascinates me most is its evolution. It begins with an almost effervescent and highly aromatic energy, but little by little the spices soften—although the mint remains recognizable for much of its development—and the composition reveals a surprisingly light base of patchouli and myrrh. It has a botanical and slightly melancholic quality, but without ever losing its elegance, making it very versatile from spring to autumn. The result is a unique and very easy-to-wear perfume. A fragrance that proves that a fresh perfume can also have depth, character, and a very defined personality. Its performance also doesn't aim to impress. The projection is moderate, and the sillage remains relatively close to the skin, which perfectly suits the introspective nature of the composition. It's a perfume for those who enjoy discovering nuances, not for those who need to be noticed.

Oh, how marvellous. This perfume is really something special. Having said this, there are some remarks to make. First does anyone know how madragora/ mandrake smells? The root is used in the classical homoeopathy. I looked it up and yes the smell of the root itself is a bit spicy-anise like. Mandragora is also a traditional love potion. In the Song of Salomon in the Bible it is told so. And the flowers of this plant are very nice coloured in a pastel blue-purple. The root itself is in the alchemy compared with the human body. And lol for all Harry Potter fans it is the first potion lesson he gets, replanting mandragora:)) Secondly the notes stated here differ from what the perfumers notes. For instance myrtle, is also in it according to the website of annick goutal. And yes there is no mandrake in it. It is a interpretation a reflection of it. Finally there are three different bottles of this perfume: one unisex, one for women and one for men. I see no difference but ok. That doesn't say anything about this top perfume. yes this is top class!!! I enjoy this minty anise like spicy tone and its longevity is great. This perfume is fresh without being citric, this perfume is uplifting without being aquatic, this perfume is balmy without being overwhelming, this perfume is aromatic without being harsh. And yes in the end it gets a floral-citric nice scent wow. And yes its a mystical perfume for all reason I addressed. When to wear? At all occasions and yes in all seasons, when you want to smell special and different. Annick Goutal is a niche brand with great class and with natural ingredients. This perfume is very special.

Mandragore Pourpre, compared to the original Mandragore, opens much darker, earthier and spicier. The bergamot and the mint are still present throughout the development. But it's no longer as green and crisp as Mandragore. The anise and the pepper turn the whole composition into another deeper colour. In the drydown, Mandragore Pourpre has a sweeter facet than the original edition. The amber and the myrhh give an oriental vibe. If sniffed closely, the heliotrope and the incense are also distinguishable. Although Mandragore Pourpre has quite a different character from the orginal Mandragore, their connection is evident: the same elements they share are embodied in the same way. Interestingly, Mandragore Pourpre has the same ethereal texture as the origianl edition even it's significantly spicer, which makes it inoffensive while keeping it stand out. The fact that it's spicer and darker, also helps to keep its strength and its vivacity, contrary to the original Mandragore which tends to fall bland in the drydown. The sillage is relatively close even sprayed liberally. The longevity is around 6 hours, which is ok for an EDT. I'd definitely recommend giving it a try. An interesting olfactory experience it shall be.

Ahhh, Mandragore Pourpre. I ordered a bottle of this magic potion based on the reviews here. What can I say. It is the essence of a certain character or spirit captured in a scent. It feels like a well hidden secret, an elixir I ingested as opposed to simply sprayed on. This fragrance is sexy, alluring and mysterious but in a decidedly non-come-hither way. It is not sporty, outgoing, flirty or fashionable. It doesn't need high heels, elaborate make-up or done hair. It's not for every day, not for a club night, not for school events, not for work. It can only be worn when the mind is set the right way and then it can be worn anywhere. Go figure. Although, I'm addicted to this brew, I'll wear it only once in a blue moon. Yes, it smells like Anis but in combination with the mint and the other herbs, it loses its overpowering aroma and becomes docile and complimentary. This scent is pretty much linear and smells on my skin exactly the way it smells in the bottle and even after 24hrs it is still noticeable.

I blind bought part of a bottle seduced by the witchy/folklore related description and unusual notes. I purchased the square bottle but this perfume really is unisex, if you want it to be. I like it. It isn't offensive, however I don't know if it would be a crowd pleaser. It is more of a perfume that you were for yourself. One aspect that surprised me most was that it is not a 'deep' or heavy smell. I was expecting a dark brew, some potion or syrup like depth but it isn't like that. It is more light, like a strong herbal tea, if it makes sense. It's spicy, and can be quite strong. On my wrist and sleeve it lasts whole day. And yet it is quite airy and fresh, not a deep and dark scent I expected. I really like it though. I get a very strong anise note which lasts throughout, some citrusy bergamot, vague mint, a little bit of geranium. It might not be a deep dark mysterious potion but it is a lovely cup or herbal tea a young witch is sipping on while she is watching her herbal garden grow.