Matcha Latte

A woody musk that sets the bittersweet edge of matcha against a milky cream accord. Kuoca builds its perfumes from the sensibility of fine dining, and this one is composed like a plated dessert: the border between bitterness and sweetness is drawn with care.

The opening is cool and green, as if fresh mint leaves were laid over thick matcha. Bergamot, clary sage and cardamom give the green bitterness a citrus lift and a shadow of spice. It recalls the astringency that lingers at the back of the tongue after a strong bowl of tea.

Then comes the warmth of rich milk cream. It wraps the greenness of matcha and leaf, while a delicate gardenia note adds a thin transparency to the creamy layer. Bitter and soft alternate the way the surface of a whisked latte does.

Sandalwood and musk close the composition. Ionone, tonka bean and vanilla bring a powdery sweetness to the woody trail. This is not a sweet gourmand with the tea removed; the bitterness of matcha stays at the core and slowly rounds out on skin.

It suits the quieter hours of autumn and winter. Try a small amount and follow the balance of green tea, soft milk and the woody finish.