Year: 2006
Notes: Calabrian bergamot, lemon, cocoa, vanilla, labdanum, Indonesian patchouli, vetiver, Texan cedar, sandalwood, musk
With an opening similar to a hybrid of Guerlain's Shalimar and Frédéric Malle's Musc Ravageur, Lei begins with a soft citrus-infused cocoa prelude. The cocoa is rich, powdery and mouth-wateringly sweet, developing more buttery nuances with the emergence of both the vanilla and labdanum.
A considerable length of time elapses before a subdued patchouli accord makes an appearance. Its manner is less bold than Serge Lutens' Borneo 1834 but, at the same time, not exactly as ethereal or refined as Chanel's Coromandel. Imbued with a honeyed sweetness, the composition develops at a languorous pace, ensuring that the wearer is never denied the pleasures of each and every transitional stage. And all the while, a musk-infused cocoa aroma continues to intensify...
The woody drydown is far less conspicuous than expected but adds further depth, as the proceedings warmly oscillate between inviting and sensual during its enchanting lifespan. Overall, its subtle projection is substantial and yet continuously enveloping, while its lasting power is astonishingly impressive.
As with the better offerings by Mazzolari, it's extremely well-executed and oozes quality. However, what's even more surprising is the fact that it's possibly the most beautiful and well-balanced chocolate gourmand yet to be encountered – making Guerlain's Gourmand Coquin seem insipid by comparison.
A considerable length of time elapses before a subdued patchouli accord makes an appearance. Its manner is less bold than Serge Lutens' Borneo 1834 but, at the same time, not exactly as ethereal or refined as Chanel's Coromandel. Imbued with a honeyed sweetness, the composition develops at a languorous pace, ensuring that the wearer is never denied the pleasures of each and every transitional stage. And all the while, a musk-infused cocoa aroma continues to intensify...
The woody drydown is far less conspicuous than expected but adds further depth, as the proceedings warmly oscillate between inviting and sensual during its enchanting lifespan. Overall, its subtle projection is substantial and yet continuously enveloping, while its lasting power is astonishingly impressive.
As with the better offerings by Mazzolari, it's extremely well-executed and oozes quality. However, what's even more surprising is the fact that it's possibly the most beautiful and well-balanced chocolate gourmand yet to be encountered – making Guerlain's Gourmand Coquin seem insipid by comparison.
