Review: Delices de Cartier

At first whiff, I immediately understood why this fragrance is called "playful." It opens enchantingly as the the pink pepper and floral notes do a sprightly dance on a warm, vanillic backdrop. Soon, however, the much anticipated cherry note becomes apparent, but far from being "iced," I found that it had all the concentrated sweetness of a handful of dried cherries left to soak in a lightly spiced, vanilla-laced brandy. Unfortunately, in the dry down, the sweetness becomes cloying and, to me, headache-inducing. Another very strange thing happens: the whole composition takes on an uncomfortable dryness, a hint of what I'd expect the molecule Norlimbanol to smell like according to Chandler Burr's description.

I would find this difficult to wear at any age, but I do think that many women, especially those who enjoy sweet, floral Orientals, would find this an elegant and supremely feminine addition to their scent wardrobes.


(I'd love to know if anyone else experienced that uncomfortable dry note!)

Notes: Iced Cherry, Bergamot, Pink Pepper, Violet, Jasmine, Freesia, Amber, Tonka Bean, Musk, Sandalwood.
@ Sephora