Imperial Jade Empress (2003)
by Agatha Brown

The name belies the character of the fragrance – this isn’t “imperial” as in heavy and luxurious. It is tastefully tropical and sophisticatedly restrained. Imperial Jade Empress opens fruity – at first strong, but within a few minutes it’s a soft, proportionate berry, blood orange, and pear fruit accord balanced with an excellent ivy leaf. Ivy leaf can be problematic because it can too easily be synthetic smelling and unnatural; this one is done impeccably well. The middle floral and spice notes are also nicely handled – discreet and smooth – primarily a delicate jasmine with a not-really-spicy cinnamon. The drydown is all softly presented wood and musk. This is a silvery, well-blended, sweet fruity / floral fragrance, kissed with spice, and warmed with wood. It has very good lasting power as in all Agatha Brown’s fragrances. An excellent, excellent fragrance.

Wow - another winner from Agatha Brown - beautiful, fresh, tangy, breezy, and then changing into a slightly spicy and woodsy scent, and then changes once again to a cashmere musk and sandalwood. A chameleon of a scent!