SCENTS OF THE SEASON : WINTER
In a season with such a distinctive style, finding the perfect scent to fragrance your winter days is the perfect finishing touch. From warm woody notes through to dark musks and vibrant berries, traditional winter scents are a true celebration of the season; cultivating a mindset that has defined its place in the fragrance calendar.
DIPTYQUE Feu de Bois Candle
Think of this as the olfactory equivalent of wearing a cosy winter blanket worn when curled up beside a blazing fire: Feu de Bois captures that familiar feeling of winter homecoming. Curl up and let the elegant rare wood and warming lapsang tea notes imbue you with an instant sensation of comfort. When it’s cold outside and you’re treating yourself to a Sunday morning in bed, this is the perfect accompaniment to duvet days - a remarkably accurate olfactory representation of a glowing hearth that immediately sets the scene for winter cosiness
THE WHITE COMPANY Fir and Berry Candle*
A candle specifically dedicated to the winter months, when the pace of life calls for something a little more comforting, The White Company’s Fir and Berry has top notes of pine, fir and nutmet, a heart of orange zest and cinnamon, and a base of amber, moss, and musk. The aromatic mix of woody and fruity notes comes alive once lit, combining to a result that is both fresh and seasonal. Pure, unadulterated festive bliss.
PENHALIGONS Juniper Sling Eau de Toilette*
Scent may be intangible, but it also has the power to transport you through time and place, and change your mood in just one spritz. A crisp combination of juniper and gin designed to call to mind the eccentricity and joy of the Bright Young Things, this melodic fragrance evokes imagery of London during the 1920s, jazz music, and endless dancing at glittering parties. A [literal] cocktail of angelica, black pepper, libertine, and amber complement the fresh juniper with an intoxicating sensuality. The perfect olfactory gift for those who prefer their winter fragrance to be far from the stereotypical [and whose designated poison is a gin and tonic].
IIUVO Woodgrain Candle*
Opening with lingering base notes of cardamon and amber blended with patchouli, this rich, vintage-inspired scent cannot fail to attract attention and is perfect for accompanying chilly winter nights. If you want to leave a lasting impression, light it prior to your house guests’ arrival in order to fill your home with an atmosphere of deep, woody, opulent indulgence. Light it for a peaceful end to a hectic working week.
DIPTYQUE Liquidambar Candle
The festive elements of rich amber, heady nutmeg and spicy cinnamon work harmoniously together here to create an aroma that is intriguing and intensely seasonal. One of three candles in Diptyque’s limited edition festive candle collection, Liquidambar pays homage to nature’s winter delights in every possible way, from the resinous winter scents through to the packaging itself, which is decorated with gilded designs in collaboration with artist Julien Colombier.
& OTHER STORIES Bonbon Tree Eau de Toilette*
& Other Stories utilises unusual ingredients in inventive ways that wouldn't typically appear in mainstream fragrances - giving them their niche appeal. The latest addition to the brand’s eclectic fragrance wardrobe, Bonbon Tree has fast caused a stir. The new scent arrives with notes of deep violet, hot sandalwood and sweet vanilla, wavering enticingly between warm and spicy bouquets.
CIRE TRUDON Nazareth Candle*
Packaged in brilliant gold hand-blown glass, Nazareth takes its name from the Israeli city that was home to Mary and Joseph and offers a unique, relaxing take on typically festive fragrance notes. Warm, traditional favourites of clove and cinnamon feature alongside zesty, bitter orange; resulting in an impactful finish that ensures this candle smells as festive as it looks; in a sparkling, brilliant gold hand-blown votive.
ORMONDE JAYNE Nocturne Candle*
Enter the star of a new breed of winter candle fragrances – heady, sophisticated notes of amber, cedar, pepper and cardamon. The result? Aromas that are as deep and rich as the season’s favourite sartorial shades. Most fragrances are created using diluted oils, but to create a more potent concentrate, British fragrance house Ormonde Jayne uses high percentage fragrance oils when hand pouring their candles in their own London studio. In the case of their festive candle, Nocture, it produces a full-bodied cocktail of smooth, mellow scents, sweetened by a tonka accord. Top it with the polished gold lid when not in use.
& OTHER STORIES Växthuset Candle*
Providing escapism at the strike of a match, Växthuset is a far cry from traditional, rich festive fragrances, offering something a little more crisp and refreshing for those who prefer their winter aromas to come with a twist. A tranquil mix of juniper, raspberry, tree moss and fir, the intoxicating blend is housed in elegant packaging that is as much a treat for the eyes as it is to the nose.
EX NIHILO Bois d'Hiver*
For a winning combination of amber and musk, opt for my personal winter favourite, Bois d’Hiver, and get swept up in an opulent dark scent, which layers three depths of potent woody scents: cardamon, cedar, and sandalwood. Each is distinctly different, but once mixed together they create a powerful aroma that is undeniably hypnotic. Offering the option to customise your fragrance choices, the travel set of vials presents the opportunity to cocktail three creations - creating unique scents by layering multiple notes [that fit perfectly into your party-ready clutch bag].
What are your favourite winter scents?
