Eau Royale
by Rancé 1795

The opening citrus notes are not fresh and lively, rather they are quite dignified and completely well-behaved: a little bit sharp, a little sour even… a bit severe, but they are not nearly as severe as as the citrus opening of, say… Penhaligon’s Blenheim Bouquet. The opening accord is a bit staid, and it’s missing the arrogant character of Blenheim Bouquet, but it does have loads of character… historical character. The middle accord is a green and floral and it is very competent. It’s interesting but not exceedingly so. The heart notes present a solid gardenia / jasmine with herbs an attractive accord, it’s even a bit unusual, and, when combined with the thyme, basil and wormwood support notes, it gives the fragrance much more of a green presence than a floral one. Yet, even with all these herbs it stays button down green – sophisticated green. There doesn’t seem to be a strong aromatic presence. The base continues the green with a smooth vetiver and a cedar for a sophisticated subtle green / woody drydown. I’m not sure of Eau Royale’s place in the scheme of things. It is a beautiful, well-made fragrance, but it does feel quite old fashioned even though it performs as capably as most modern quality fragrances. I appreciate the quality and the aromas of the fragrance, but I’m not sure I appreciate the kind of old fashioned ambiance it presents.

18th March, 2008.