Love it: Jo Malone London Myrrh & Tonka Cologne Intense

“Namibia, with its sand dunes and warm desert colours, conjured up the romance of faraway lands…”

Céline Roux, Fragrance Director, Jo Malone London

Noble and intoxicating – as well as in store right now – Jo Malone London’s latest Cologne Intense release, Myrrh & Tonka, is one of my favourite fragrances of the past twelve months. Just a few days into 2017 it can safely be called the Fragrance of the Year, and may hold the title for some time yet.

I am a huge fan of the Cologne Intense range at any time of year - the slightly warmer and often spicy notes sit well on my skin and in my fragrance wardrobe, and they wear well too. In the summer months I often save them for long, hot evenings, which is when they really come into their own. Compliments? You bet, and often.

Unisex and appealing from the get go, the aforementioned new fragrance, Myrrh & Tonka Cologne Intense has been described as “oriental and exquisitely simple in its composition”, both of which get thumbs up from me. Its unusual fragrance pyramid (lavender, myrrh and Tonka bean with vanilla and almond at the base) makes it stand out from the crowd in an unabashedly sensuous way, and it really does perform exceptionally in the Wear Factor test.

The fragrance was created by perfumer Mathilde Bijaoul, who says of the new release: “There is an atmosphere of addiction and carnal richness to this fragrance which appeals to both men and women. At the top there is a hint of lavender and a oral note, creating a comforting and voluptuous opening. The big, rich heart and base note of myrrh is sensual. And the tonka brings generosity. It’s captivating and mesmerising.” Saucy! And I wholeheartedly agree, whilst Céline Roux, Jo Malone London’s Fragrance Director adds: “Both the myrrh and the tonka have a decadent and addictive quality that chimes with the concept or rarity and opulence. I felt that the collection was missing a fully warm, sensual and rounded Oriental feel,” and that is what this new beauty delivers.

Jo Malone London Myrrh & Tonka Cologne Intense is in store now, RRP NZD$280 for 100ml of sheer gorgeousness.