Nestled in the enchanting history of perfumery lies a recent gem from an Italian house that draws its inspiration from the vibrant and artistic atmosphere of Montmartre, Paris, circa 1894. Morph Parfums has launched a fragrance named *Montmartre*, evoking the allure of a time when dancers twirled at the famed Moulin Rouge, and street vendors offered whimsical gifts. With notes of leather, frankincense, myrrh, and a touch of iris, this scent beckons enthusiasts with its promise of deep tales and layered aromas. As we delve into the essence of Montmartre, we explore not just the fragrance itself, but the stories and emotions it encapsulates.
One of the standout attributes of Montmartre is its commendable longevity and soft projection. On the skin, it radiates a gentle presence, sufficient for daily wear without being overwhelming. The scent’s journey allows it to comfortably transition from a more vibrant opening to a serene dry-down, holding an allure well over fourteen hours.
The Creative Ethos Behind Morph Parfums
Morph Parfums is a relative newcomer to the world of fragrances, reportedly founded in 2013 under the creative direction of Dr. Andrea Angelino and perfumer Maurizio Cerizza. The company prides itself on crafting scents that transcend mere olfactory experiences—each fragrance is a narrative, resonating with human emotions and adventures. Morph Parfums has gained attention for concentrating its creations at an impressive 33%, far exceeding typical extrait de parfums. This dedication to high concentration ensures longevity and intensity, inviting the wearer to indulge in layers of storytelling encapsulated within a bottle.An Exploration of Montmartre
Montmartre, or *Montmartre 1894* as it sometimes referred to, inspires visions of Yvette, a young ballerina performing her heart out in the radiant district of Montmartre. During a magical evening, she is gifted an enchanted vial containing a captivating perfume. This olfactory potion, rich in amber and natural essences, becomes her secret weapon, enchanting every soul that crosses her path. This origin story elevates the experience of wearing Montmartre into something enchanting and mystical.Aromatic Profile
While Morph does not provide an exhaustive list of notes for Montmartre, perfume enthusiasts have discerned a distinct note pyramid which includes: - Top Notes: Frankincense, Myrrh - Heart Notes: Iris, Patchouli - Base Notes: Musk, Leather, Ambergris This exquisite blend is further enhanced by the recurrent themes of exploration and joy that Morph encapsulates in the artistry of its fragrances.The Journey Through Scent
Upon the first spritz, Montmartre unveils a composition that is both enchanting and approachable. The opening is dominated by the cool, resinous nature of myrrh, accented by peppery undertones that contribute to an aloof, almost ethereal quality. Accompanying this is a touch of floral intrigue, not overtly distinct but noticeable enough to suggest a whisper of iris. As time unfolds, a comforting sweetness emerges, steering the scent toward a semi-sweet incense that alludes to the deeper complexities within.Transformation in Layers
As the fragrance settles, the initial definition starts to blur. About fifteen minutes into the experience, Montmartre evolves into a more cohesive entity where individual notes entwine. The myrrh-softness locks arms with a powdery, comforting texture reminiscent of marshmallow, softly enveloping the iris note. This unexpected melding transports the wearer’s senses, revealing an iridescent balance—highlighting each note without overshadowing another.The Dance of Myrrh and Frankincense
The second stage of Montmartre's development brings forth a delightful interplay between sweet creaminess and whispering incense. As the iris remains the centerpiece, a warm creaminess emerges, reminiscent of *Cashmerean woods* and the sweetness of *tonka.* Myrrh begins to recede, taking on a supporting role while the frankincense weaves itself into the composition. The fragrance becomes a tug-of-war between sweetness and smoky depth, with neither element overshadowing the other, allowing the ethereal iris to take the lead.The Final Phases
By the time the fragrance reaches its third phase, Montmartre embraces a soothed, clean floral woody musk essence. The sweetness from earlier layers dissipates, leaving a pleasantly dry base mingling floral hints with soft woodiness. The iris now becomes less distinct, shifting towards an androgynous clean scent, subtly tinged with lingering musk that still hints at its original character.Final Impressions
While Montmartre delivers a pleasant olfactory experience packed with intrigue, some aficionados may find it lacks the complexity typically sought in niche fragrances. Its linearity can feel simplified, especially for those expecting a more challenging composition. Nevertheless, the overall smoothness, airiness, and refined elegance make it a formidable contender for anyone's collection—especially those who are fans of iris. Additionally, at an accessible price point of approximately €103 to €119 for a 100 ml bottle, Montmartre presents itself as a refined option for aspiring fragrance enthusiasts.Availability and Conclusion
As of now, Morph’s beautiful creations, including Montmartre, are primarily anchored in Europe, though samples are readily available for exploring its intrigues in the U.S. market. With every spritz of Montmartre, wearers are invited to embrace a story rich in history and allure, where every note is a reminder of a fleeting moment in time. ---What is Morph Parfums known for?
Morph Parfums is known for its high-concentration perfumes that encapsulate narratives and emotions, focusing on the rich history and stories behind each scent.
How long does Montmartre last on the skin?
Montmartre typically lasts over fourteen hours, showcasing excellent longevity paired with moderate to soft projection.