Atelier Chai
Clove and turmeric open sharp and warm, then cherry and cinnamon sweeten the heart. Patchouli, myrrh and Bourbon vanilla settle into a resinous base.
Perfumer: Aliénor Massenet
The Case Study series takes its name from the close examination of an individual subject. Atelier Chai explores the meeting of spice, fruit and resin.
Atelier Chai layers spice over resin without letting either dominate. Clove oil opens sharp and dry, and turmeric brings an earthy warmth beside it. Bergamot cuts through with a bitter citrus edge, while Longoza from Madagascar adds another aromatic accent.
In the heart, a cherry accord brings round fruit, and cinnamon oil from Madagascar gives it a sweet heat. Tonka bean absolute softens the spice with an almond-like smoothness, so the sharpness of the opening eases rather than disappears.
Patchouli from Sulawesi forms the base, damp and earthy, with myrrh absolute and Bourbon vanilla absolute building a dense resinous sweetness. Cedarwood oil runs a dry line through it and keeps the vanilla from turning heavy.
On skin, the resin lingers longer than the first spice. It suits cool weather and evening wear, and sits well against wool or leather.
