The latest incarnation of Guerlain’s Aqua Allegoria range is the new Forte Collection, and while the familiar olfactory signature is present, this is a more intense version. The innovation doesn’t stop there, however, as the brand is absolutely committed to creating beauty that is always mindful of our beautiful planet — and I’m proud to say that they totally deliver as promised.
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Aqua Allegoria Forte Mandarine Basilic Eau de Parfum (CAN $144.00/75 ml, 2.5 fl oz) | Created by Guerlain perfumeur Delphine Jelk, this fragrance is housed in a bottle with that instantly recognizable shape and its honeycomb shawl. In addition, the bottle is made with at least 15% recycled glass with a top that screws off so it can be refilled, thereby extending the life of this one bottle without ever compromising on future ‘juice’ quality. Another difference is the cap of the bottle which now sports a raised bee motif, as compared to the etched version on regular range. The formula has a base of 90% natural origin French beetroot alcohol — a first in the industry, and a process that was years in the making — and comes from a network that is committed to responsible farming. Considered part of the aromatic fruity fragrance family, the composition includes:
- Top notes: basil, blackcurrant
- Heart notes: Italian mandarine, orange blossom, Bourbon Vanilla, Bulgarian rose
- Base notes: Sandalwood
The most obvious difference between the Forte version and the original, is that this is an Eau de Parfum as opposed to Eau de Toilette, and thus longer lasting. The fresh sparkling citrus personality of the original has been given more dimension here, smoother & fuller-bodied and leans more towards the gourmand side, but never comes across as cloying. The marriage of vanilla & sandalwood to the mandarine/basil notes is sublime and has turned what would otherwise be a lighthearted composition traditionally suited to wearing in warmer weather, into an exquisite harmony that can easily be worn all year round. With an excellent staying power, I adore the uplifting effect of its initial spritz, one that quickly morphs within minutes into something creamy and almost mouth-watering, only to finally close hours later into a warm skin-like scent. Bottom line: this is everything I look for in a fragrance and find myself reaching for this one quite often. Another perk [for me, at least] is that this is totally NOT headache inducing either.
The DNA of the original is still quite present in the EDP version, and apart from the differences I listed above, it’s worth noting that the colour of the juice is different as well — the better to differentiate them, I’m guessing.
It’s no secret that Guerlain is one of my absolute favourite brands, with their scents having a place of honour in my fragrance repertoire. As much as I enjoy several of the Aqua Allegoria EDT’s, I confess that Aqua Allegoria Forte Mandarine Basilic has risen to the top and I literally take every opportunity to wear it. I’m sure to turn to moodier scents now that the weather has turned cooler, but for now I’ll keep on channeling all things warm & sunny with this baby for as long as I can. PS: you might want to add this to either your Christmas list or gift to someone you love!
Available at Guerlain counters & online
Kindly provided by Guerlain for my unbiased consideration
