Penhaligon's Iris Prima (2013) {New Fragrance}

Penhaligon's will launch a new fragrance from September 9, 2013 called Iris Prima which is inspired by the world of ballet, in particular that of the English National Ballet. Comparable to a veritable ethnographer of atmospheres and smells, perfumer Alberto Morillas was invited to explore the behind-the-scenes universe of classical dancers Nathan Young et Lauretta Summerscales at Markova House home to the National Ballet in South Kensington....

Iris Prima is said to be a "naturally elegant and slightly melancholy" composition built around iris absolute in an olfactive work likened to a choreography where Alberto Morillas has adopted the role of choreographer and iris is said to be the prima ballerina. 

The eau de parfum opens on top notes of bergamot, vegetal amber, pink peppercorn. In the heart iris and sambac jasmine dance a pas-de-deux enlivened by Hedione and Paradisione. Base notes feature leather, vanilla, sandalwood, vetiver and benzoin. The leather accord is an allusion to the leather soles of the dancers' slippers, a symbol of their art one finds also as a decorative motif on the flacon. 

Penhaligon's are it seems continuing their project of associating their perfumes with symbols of the nation by looking at very specific locales and confidential universes which are nevertheless representative of British excellence. In 2010, they did something similar by inviting perfumer Bertrand Duchaufour to visit the workhops of Savile Row for the fragrance Sartorial. 

Prices: 110€ for 50 ml and 140€ for 100 ml.