Lea St Barth is by Calypso St. Barth, and the notes include almond, vanilla, and musk. Background information on the Calypso St. Barth line is scarce, but it seems to be a boutique on the Caribbean island of St. Barthelemy, not to be confused with Christiane Celle’s Calypso, which also hails from St. Barth. The island is also home to Ligne St. Barth. There must be something in the water there that inspires fragrance creation…
“While traveling the Silk Road between Asia and the Mediterranean, explorers ate almonds to maintain health. Thought to promote fertility, the Romans showered the bride and groom after a wedding with almonds.” (from the Claus Porto description of the Alface candle)
The almond tree (prunus dulcis) and its blossoms and fruit have had symbolic meaning for cultures in Asia (the tree’s native habitat), the Middle East and Europe. The long-lived tree represents endurance and the wish for a long life. The abundant, fragrant almond blossoms of late winter convey the promise of coming spring and proclaim the ability of the earth to renew itself. In China, white almond blossoms symbolize feminine beauty…
Claus Porto is a Portuguese soap manufacturing company that, since its inception in 1887, has become one of the most prestigious soap makers in Europe. As of recent years, they have began to offer their products to American consumers in fourteen fragrances ranging from Favorito (Red Poppy) to Lelite (Orange Amber) and Ilyria (Honeysuckle), all encased in the most beautiful vibrant art deco packaging.
Being somewhat of an almond addict, the first scent I had to try was Alface. As Kevin found in his experience with the Alface candle, it is actually quite an unusual almond fragrance…
Compared to everything from Lea St Barth to Caron Farnesiana, Mazzolari’s Alessandro is another successful almond fragrance — toasted, honeyed and magnificent.
Alessandro opens with every facet glimmering, ready to be appreciated. Golden honey notes layered over a not-too-powdery almond note…