Where I live, this past weekend brought a few days of false spring. The sky shone rich azure, windows through the neighborhood flew open, and birds came out in legions, singing fiercely and hopping through the garden. I craved asparagus, fava beans, sorrel — and a lighter, fresher fragrance. It was the perfect time to crack out my sample of Bottega Veneta Eau Legère.

Perfumer Michel Almairac developed Eau Legère as a flanker to Bottega Veneta Eau de Parfum. Bottega Veneta describes it as a “leathery floral chypre” with notes of gardenia, musk, and oak moss.

I’m a fan of the original Bottega Veneta and bought a bottle within a week of smelling it. It’s a jammy blend of apricot, suede, and patchouli that weaves a cashmere blanket of scent. Bottega Veneta has a definite presence, and it’s a warm, approachable, comforting aura I’m complimented on nearly every time I wear it. But I can’t imagine wearing it in warm weather. It’s just plain too thick.

Enter Eau Legère…

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