Roses Elixir by Montale

*****
Year: 2010

Notes: citrus, strawberry leaf, orange blossom, rose, jasmine, amber, vanilla, musk
With an effervescent and very juicy opening of citrus and strawberry leaf, Roses Elixir isn't the straightforward rose fragrance that the name implies. Instead, it's a floral-oriental with the rose playing only a supporting role.

The orange blossom is almost peach-like and brings to mind previous Montale floral-orientals, especially those with 'velvet' in the name. But before the timid vanilla and musk drydown reveals itself, one has already drawn striking comparisons to a number of Christian Dior's sweeter (and more recent) female creations, particularly Miss Dior Cherie and Dolce Vita.

With decent longevity and sillage, not only does it lack originality but it's also based on an olfactory theme that this house has already explored more than once. If it's rose that you're after, there's a far better chance of one of Montale's rose-oud offerings serving your needs more satisfactorily.


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