Perfume Review: Cuir Ottoman by Parfum d’Empire
Cuir Ottoman is the new addition to the Parfum d’Empire line (previous ones being Ambre Russe, Eau Suave, and Eau de Gloire). It’s said to have been inspired by the Ottoman empire and is supposed to evoke the charm and eroticism of the Orient (Osmoz.com) I’m a bit doubtful it evokes such things for me as I view Cuir Ottoman as a predominantly leather scent (and that’s all that matters).
With the notes of iris, jasmine, styrax, leather, Tolu balsam, benzoin, incense, it rocked my world before application on skin. It starts out as bitter, tar-like leather that I initially associated with burnt rubber or car tire smell. At this stage, it very much reminds me of Kolnisch Juchten, minus the citrusy-smoky note. As it develops, it’s not as much about the leather any more - it’s more about a milky, resinous balsam, with just a touch of what seems like incense and powdery softness of iris. Cuir Ottoman undergoes quite a transformation - from astringent, barbaric leather to yielding, velvety suede. It’s amazingly wearable, and I can see it being favored by those who don’t usually fall for leather scents.
For other excellent impressions, please read Victoria’s review and Marina’s review.
Cuir Ottoman should be available at Aedes within the next couple of weeks. For more retailer information, please check the Parfum d’Empire site.
Image source: www.osmoz.com
13 comments October 10th, 2006