Experiencing fragrance can be as subjective as art, with each scent offering a unique narrative shaped by individual perceptions and skin chemistry. Recently, I've embarked on a fragrant journey with *Sotto La Luna Tuberose*, the latest creation from innovative perfumer Andy Tauer, which is the second installation in his Sotto La Luna collection. Known for his abstract takes on classic florals, Tauer's interpretation of tuberose promised an intriguing exploration, albeit with past experiences casting a shadow of uncertainty on my expectations.
Understanding Sotto La Luna Tuberose
Sotto La Luna Tuberose is presented as an eau de parfum, inviting wearers to rethink the perception of tuberose through a new lens. Tauer describes it as “brilliantly different,” characterized by a peppery green nuance paired with the airy freshness typical of the queen of the night. According to him, this fragrance redefines floral elegance, highlighted by an intricate layering of notes.The Composition Breakdown
Each fragrance tells a complex story through its notes, and Sotto La Luna Tuberose is no exception. The composition unfolds in three primary layers:Top Notes
The opening features a medley of cinnamon, clove, geranium, and fresh galbanum. These top notes mix energizing spices with a green botanical element that sets an intriguing stage.Heart Notes
At the core lies a floral blend of tuberose, ylang ylang, jasmine, and a hint of rose. This is where one would typically expect the essence of the tuberose to shine through, but instead presents a more abstract floral experience.Base Notes
The fragrance concludes with tuberose, patchouli, and dark ambergris, which ensures a lasting impression but carries forward the complexities introduced in the earlier notes.My Personal Experience
Navigating Sotto La Luna Tuberose has been akin to entering a beautifully chaotic gallery of art, where traditional expectations collide with contemporary interpretations. Initially, I was greeted by a whisper of tuberose, creamy yet green, swirling into a tide of burnt rubber and tar—a twist I hadn’t previously anticipated.A Complex Opening
The fragrance opens with an almost overwhelming cacophony—a bitter clash of burnt tires mingling with the sweetness of powdered candies. The spicy notes of clove and pepper do not so much enrich the floral elements but instead turn the opening into a tumultuous whirlwind that gradually calms.Moving Through Stages
After the initial shock of that chaotic opening, I noticed distinct phases unfolding over time:Transitioning to Floral
As the minutes passed, the harsh edges of clove and diesel began to soften, replaced by a more rounded powderiness reminiscent of a dusty, long-abandoned mansion. Where I had once perceived chaos, I now sensed the slow emergence of structure within the fragrance, though shades of mushroom and earthiness remained present beneath the florals.A Drawn-Out Development
By the hour mark, the conflicting notes began to find a delicate equilibrium. The heavy weight of diesel and rubber diminished, and as normalcy returned, the creamy aspect of tuberose took on a more ethereal quality, complemented by the emergence of sweeter notes—cinnamon intertwined with the now gentler floral backdrop.The Diminishing Complexity
As time wore on, the fragrance started to morph into something closer to a familiar rose potpourri. Hours passed, revealing layers of spicy patchouli gracing the dusty rose. While up close the version of tuberose had drifted further into abstraction, the lingering sweetness offered a comforting familiarity far removed from the initial confusion of scents.Reception and Reflections
The overall reception of Sotto La Luna Tuberose has been divisive. Some reviewers have connected with its unique and modern interpretation, while others have expressed a desire for a more classic depiction of tuberose. It is apparent that Tauer’s fragrances often draw polarized responses, with people either embracing or rejecting his stylized visions.Contrasting Voices
Tom from The Perfume Posse commented on the modern and bracing nature of the fragrance but admitted he personally wouldn't wear it. In contrast, Robin from Now Smell This embraced its tuberose essence wholeheartedly, appreciating its distinct character without focusing on its component parts.Fragrance Performance
The performance aspects of Sotto La Luna Tuberose shouldn’t be overlooked either. Its longevity is remarkable, continuing to evolve on the skin for hours. However, this prolonged presence on the skin may elicit discomfort if the wearer is not attuned to its initial onslaught of discordant notes.Availability and Pricing
Sotto La Luna Tuberose is presented in a 50 ml bottle priced at approximately $145 or €135, though purchasing directly from Tauer may lower the price marginally. The fragrance is accessible through various channels, including U.S.-based retailers such as Luckyscent and Twisted Lily, as well as international outlets.Final Thoughts
In the world of perfumery, no two experiences are alike. Sotto La Luna Tuberose served as a reminder of how subjective fragrance can be, weaving together challenges and unexpected joys. While I cannot confidently declare this scent a keeper for my collection, the journey of discovery it sparked has been invaluable, expanding my appreciation of the bold and often audacious world of modern perfumery.What is Sotto La Luna Tuberose?
Sotto La Luna Tuberose is an eau de parfum by Andy Tauer, part of his Sotto La Luna collection, focused on a modern and abstract interpretation of the tuberose flower.
Where can I purchase Sotto La Luna Tuberose?
Sotto La Luna Tuberose can be purchased through various retailers like Luckyscent and Twisted Lily in the U.S. It is also available internationally from select retailers and directly from Tauer Perfumes.