Shalimar Philtre De Parfum, the new release from Guerlain. A true symbol of the 1920s and an undisputed best-seller of the Guerlain house, Shalimar ranks among the most beautiful fragrances on the planet. Initially created by Jacques Guerlain, it is an essence known to women all over the world, paying tribute to the strength of eternal love.
Shalimar is one of the most beautiful compositions in perfumery for women. Created in 1925, this fragrance is over a century old but has lost absolutely nothing of its splendor. Already enriched by numerous olfactory reinterpretations, it offers yet another new variant of its scent in 2020. This time, it becomes Shalimar Philtre de Parfum. So, what about its new composition? How about lifting its small cap to intoxicate yourself with its sulfurous breath, inspired by one of the most beautiful Indian love stories?
The refreshing, aromatic opening of Shalimar Philtre de Parfum
Shalimar Philtre de Parfum owes its existence to Thierry Wasser, official master perfumer of Guerlain. Here, he chose to deliver a new interpretation of the iconic Shalimar, while giving it an unprecedented face, enhancing its legendary sensuality with a more powdery accord. It all begins with the bitter, tangy breath of bergamot. Recall that in its first version, it was played in overdose and represented 30% of its original formula. Now, bergamot takes more of a back seat. Shalimar Philtre de Parfum contains, alongside it, a lemon that is just as zesty but airier. Lavender, for its part, brings an aromatic, Mediterranean facet, immediately illuminating this fragrance with a floral, sun-kissed glow.
Iris blooms in a floral heart
Then, all the powdery elegance of Shalimar Philtre de Parfum blooms in a floral heart. Here, it is woven with rose and jasmine, an iconic duo in perfumery for women. However, do not think that Guerlain opts for simplicity. In reality, these two flowers are played with lightness. With full discretion, they serve above all to add texture to the whole. Iris, for its part, appears at this moment. Its powdery notes reinforce the finesse and subtlety of Shalimar Philtre de Parfum. By using one of the most expensive ingredients in perfumery, Guerlain intends to make Shalimar Philtre de Parfum another prestigious essence, the embodiment of all the nobility of India of old and of the strength of feelings. The whole is also accompanied by coumarin, giving more depth to this composition.
The creamy, sensual base of Shalimar Philtre de Parfum
While Shalimar Philtre de Parfum launches on an absolute freshness, its base gradually becomes warmer. The interplay of light and shadow initiated by Guerlain is a clear success. Vanilla is played here in overdose. More specifically, Shalimar Philtre de Parfum blends vanilla absolute, vanillin and ethyl vanillin. Syrupy and creamy to perfection, it heightens its sensuality in a breath of Tolu balsam and benzoin. Finally, a woody sillage can be felt. Patchouli gives more structure and character to the whole, while granting Shalimar Philtre de Parfum greater longevity.