Reminiscence Patchouli Elixir

Virginian Cedar, Javanese Patchouli, Haitian Vetiver, Australian Sandalwood, Frankincense, Madagascar Vanilla, Tonka Beans, Tolu Balsam, Musk.

I reviewed this particular scent in November 2009 and it was an extremely brief one at that. I had just started the blog then, so more than 6 years later is ample time to revisit this release. Acquiring another bottle of this is also good reason to do so, so without further ado......

Wearing Elixir by Reminiscence, I'm reminded not only how good this house does Patchouli, but how this particular release leans masculine although marketed to women.

I own and truly enjoy Eau de Patchouli by Reminiscence. That one is in the center of the gender line and a brighter rendition. Elixir is woods and earth tones galore. It's darker, more masculine and not as transparent. All patchouli, to some, is of the head shop variety. They cannot distinguish nuances since the note is permeating and strong if it's a featured note. Since I truly like Patchouli, I know the differences when I smell it.

"Unforgettable" Elixir is just as good, if not better. If Eau de Patchouli is a hand wrapped in a glove, Elixir is a clenched fist, sans the glove. Once the drydown and beyond transpire, Elixir does manifest softer, smoother elements. On my skin, I'm experiencing earthy woods and then a transition of toned down Patchouli accented by hints of resins,powder and vanilla.

Some houses just know how to do Patchouli. Reminiscence is definitely one of them. In terms of presence, I'll rank Elixir right up there besides Bois 1920 Real Patchouly.

Sillage is good, so easy on the trigger. Longevity is approximately 6 hours, then much longer as a skin scent. This is detectable the next day. Thumbs up ( again ) from Aromi for Unforgettable Elixir Patchouli by Reminiscence. As always, a sample wear is recommended.