Fragrance profiling not to be sniffed at
Smell ought to be the sense we elevate to the highest honour. Sure, sunsets and symphonies may consistently bag the cinematic and soundtrack gongs, but it’s aroma that walks away with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Smells evoke memories and call the other senses to the forefront. Walking past Edinburgh’s Fisher’s Restaurant at The Shore, the aroma takes me back to my first taste of fantastic seafood on a Mediterranean holiday, while a wet golden retriever reminds me of the happiest family Christmas,.
The bouquet of your introduction to a decent glass of wine, the hedonism of youthful sweaty discos or the pheromones of your first kiss, smell shapes your life and doesn’t allow you to forget. I’ve always aimed for fairly high-end fragrances. Smelling good simply makes me feel special but it's time for variety and I want inspiration. A fragrance profiling session might be just the ticket.
Stepping into Penhaligon’s on Edinburgh’s George Street is like entering a jewellery box of wonder. The presentation is simply stunning, a sophisticated blend of modern and heritage style with a dash of whimsy thrown in. Penhaligon’s is a perfume house that doesn’t feel ‘branded’ giving the products individual personality and character.
Before a scent has been sprayed I immediately know this will feel like a bespoke experience. Shop manager Michaela gave me a warm welcome and although we had to wear face masks (Michaela laments that in non-Covid times they’re able to offer canapés and fizz) I can see her warm and enthusiastic nature shine through her eyes. I’m set for a luxurious experience, and I’m also very relaxed. Michaela is ready to take me on a fun adventure, there will be no stuffiness here.
She began by asking me what sort of smells I’m attracted to and whether I’d like something that can be detected from a distance or a more close up experience for the lucky person whose nostrils will have the future privilege.
In times like these I’m perfectly happy to have my perfume detected at exactly a two metre distance.
And how would I like my new fragrance to make me feel? Well, I think the innocent ship has sailed so let’s go for sophisticated and seductive.
Whether the aim is to find a signature fragrance or something for a special occasion, the most important thing to Michaela is that we find something I fall in love with. Can a perfume deliver what Tinder has failed to? My right hand thumb is poised and I’m quietly confident.
My favourite, and the one I leave with, is The Tragedy of Lord George. Infused with the scent of shaving soap and warm rum this is said to be a ‘traditional upstanding fragrance with hidden secrets’.
This is definitely an aroma that would appeal to men but when I smell it on my skin I’m in love with the serious, heady scent and feel rather alluring in it. Reader, I swiped right.
To book your fragrance profiling session: Penhaligon’s, 33 George Street, EH2 2HN. Tel 0131 220 3210.
Penhaligons.com