Pure Essence No.2: Rose by Neal's Yard

*****
Year: 2012

Notes: palmarosa, pink pepper, rose geranium, Damascus rose, centifolia rose, benzoin, cedar
Pure Essence No.2: Rose is a well-executed organic rose fragrance that's both natural-smelling and velvety in its general demeanour.

The pepper is fleeting, while both the rose geranium and the palmarosa's subtle rose attributes serve to act as a prelude to the floral heart of the composition. Segued seamlessly, it initially bears resemblance to the aroma of centifolia rose (also known as Rose de Mai), before smelling very similar to rose otto absolute – soft, vibrant, creamy and musky, with a spicy fermented wine undertone.

One found the base of benzoin and cedar to be surprisingly non-invasive, allowing the rose accords (as well as the components olfactorily related to them) to flourish unconditionally until the very end. And while the benzoin is partly responsible for the creamy nuances, the cedar largely remains inconspicuous.

With better lasting power compared to Pure Essence No.1: Frankincense, Pure Essence No.2: Rose is neither loud nor profoundly rich. However, with rose otto absolute being as expensive as it is, it offers a more affordable alternative at a very reasonable price.


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