Eau de Cartier

Bergamot, Yuzu, Coriander.
Violet Flowers, Lavender, Violet Leaves.
Musk, Patchouli, Blue Cedar, White Amber.

Recently, I won a bottle of this in auction and having never smelled it beforehand, I fully expected to like it. I held out hope because the Cartier's I have tried or own have not let me down, regardless of whether I loved them or not. They have a certain something...........

The thing I was a little apprehensive about was the implementation of violet. That particular note either sells me on a scent or is a deal breaker, depending on the tuning and balance of it in the overall scheme of the scent.

When I initially applied Eau de Cartier, I knew immediately that this possessed a rendition of violet I could not only live with, but enjoy. It's a sheer version of the note that has a soft soul. There's no rough edges to be found and interacts perfectly with its confederates.

Eau de Cartier is mildly aromatic upon application, but quickly settles into a soft citrus, lavender and violet accord. It's a rather succulent salutation and suggests a floral moistness. A wispy herb quality is woven into the fabric of the top and heart accords.

My only beef with Eau de Cartier is that the longevity is abysmal on my skin. The sillage dies down quickly to a personal space scent and I'm actually okay with that since this smells extremely good and would excel in spring and summer. However, it doesn't last but 2 hours max even with heavier than normal applications.

I appreciate a good sprinter like most sports fans, but I'm not looking for a fast finish in my fragrances. Even the base accord lacks presence. I do realize a slightly mentholated musk, but earth and wood never materialize.

What started with promise goes out with a whimper on me. Such a shame because I thoroughly enjoyed the first 10 minutes. The best I can give Eau de Cartier is a neutral rating. Perhaps your skin will amplify and hold this fragrance more successfully than mine. A sample wear is highly recommended.