Penhaligon's Clandestine Clara Eau de Parfum

In the collection of the British brand Penhaligon's, there are fragrances that narrate various historical moments of England and the personalities somehow connected to them. One such fragrance is Clandestine Clara, which tells the story of Clara — the mistress and favorite of Lord George. Here she is, flirting with him, swirling in a romantic dance, providing sweet nights. But the very next day, quite un-ladylike, she drives a car and smokes. This perfume too reveals itself in a similar fashion, astonishing with its oriental bouquet of shades.

The succinct trio of notes resonates with a tertian harmony of nuances. The first, noble and aristocratic, emerges as sweet amber. Following it, an independent intermezzo of spicy, warmly comforting cinnamon envelops with its soothing bitterness. The final chord vibrates with the overtone of balsamic patchouli, scattering sparks of an enticing, musky-woody aftertaste behind it.