Essence D'Eau (2003)
by Gianfranco Ferré

Essence d'eau, Gianfranco Ferre, launched in 2003, is one of a number of Ferre fragrances that are little known in the US. Best described as a floral oriental, it contains the following notes:

Top: Cedar Flower, Neroli, Kumquat Skin, Blackberry, Lily of the Valley
Middle: Narcissus, Rose, Jasmin
Base: Transparent Woods, Amber, Vanilla, Musk

The opening is more floral than fruit, with notes that are powerful, but ultimately well blended. The lily of the valley, a note that gives some people trouble, is immediately detectable, but not strident. After announcing its presence, it settles down and softens.

The middle notes are similarly well combined, with no single note taking center stage. This is perhaps due to the musky warm base. Jasmine certainly asserts itself, but it leaves the indoles behind. This is a tame jasmine, content to mingle with the rose and narcissus.

The base needs little description The notes say it all. A woodsy, ambery, musky, vanillic platform for the other notes. Nicely done.

This is a perfectly wearable feminine fragrance with moderate sillage. Spray lightly if wearing to the office.

31st December, 2008.

Received this in a swap thinking it might be unisex. Imagine my surprise when Chantecaille's Frangipane showed up in a Ferre bottle. A dewy floral with some wonderful vanillic notes in the base, extremely reminiscent of the aforementioned predecessor. Very nice fragrance for those looking for lighter or fresher orientals...but what a price tag!

10th September, 2005.