Verbena

Scintillating, sparkling, juggernaut of lemon-y bliss! From the first spritz, I was completely in love. SMN was founded in 1221, and opened to the public in 1612. This is one of their first fragrances, so it's a historical favorite, and they have had aeons to perfect the recipe. From the start, SMN made their perfumes and medicinal balms from plants cultivated in the monastary garden, and still do it as much as possible today. From the aroma, their lemon verbena section is flourishing. The Dominican monks who originally composed Verbena must have wanted to impart the feeling of divine sunshine. I picture them walking through the verbena plot, brushing up against the herb, and enjoying the aroma rising during the heat of the day. The brilliance of lemon is concentrated, as if you crushed the leaves of an entire plant and buried your nose in the mound. As I became accustomed, it got even better. A thread of tartness appeared that made my mouth water. There's also a sweetness mixed in that reminded me of eating lemon drops. Along with the tiniest molecule of SMN's stony DNA. I have Caswell-Massey's Verbena Cologne Spray, which I love. It was my go-to lemon fragrance, but SMN's Verbena blows the competition away. Fantastic intensity, moderate sillage and longevity.

The modern SMNs just can't compare to the vintages. I have a vintage bottle. It is HUGE, long-lasting and not powdery or soapy. This is ALL lemon, lemon verbena and a little sweetness like a sorbet. It is gorgeous.

Reminiscent of lemon pledge and lemon drop candy. A sunny and bright composition of fresh lemon peel and crushed verbena leaves. Screams summer to me...

Bought it in Barcelona a few days ago. Wonderful citrus, soapy and a Little powdery scent. Love it!