Eau des Iles by Maitre Parfumeur et Gantier

Myrrh, Tarragon, Coffee Beans, Incense, Ylang Ylang, Labdanum, Patchouli, Vetiver, Galbanum.

Simply by looking at the listed notes, would you think this a strange brew? You'd be correct in assuming such. I almost laughed at the opening. Not because it's horrendous, but because it's truly eclectic. Not since the original Ted Lapidus ( 1978 ) have I been encapsulated in a shroud of smoke such as this. The difference here is that Eau des Iles pilfers you with a strange coffee haze that's slightly burnt and accented with an undercurrent of myrrh and incense. I like it more than I don't like it........but that aside, I tip my cap to Mr. Laporte for his prodigious output in the year 1988. Maitre Parfumeur et Gantier took numerous chances and that bravado is why enthusiasts have respect for this house.

After 10 minutes or so, the smoke dissipates noticeably and signals the arrival of patchouli and vetiver. This duo was actually churning underneath from the onset, but materialize once the haziness clears from the top accord. I can also detect tarragon now since it was apparently overtaken in the cacophony.

From the heart to the base, Eau des Iles settles down rather nicely and becomes much more comfortable. The tarragon and galbanum contribute just enough sweet and green to counter the slightly bitter coffee mist that is still ongoing.

Once the drydown commences, Eau des Iles has evolved into a soothing masculine with earthy tones, hints of green and a subtle, dry amber. The finish is extremely different from the beginning on my skin and the intro is something you may have to become accustomed to. It's off the beaten path and not something I find would be conducive to the feminine  persuasion. That's simply my opinion, so please don't let that dissuade you from trying it. It may somehow work for you.

Sillage is good and longevity is about 4 hours before it turns into a skin scent. This is definitely a try before you buy, but I have to give Eau des Iles a thumbs up just for originality if nothing else.