Senior Editor Tama Blough
This was an interesting year for me for perfume experience. I made a few discoveries in the Indie and Niche world, but for the most part I got the most enjoyment out of exploring more established lines, and veering into the mainstream as well.
Were I able to give an award for House of the Year it would go to Penhaligon’s, for bringing new life and excitement to the brand, but in lieu of that I have chosen their Iris Prima, composed by Alberto Morillas, as one of my top two perfumes of the year. I have a complicated relationship with iris as a note, and the first time I smelled Iris Prima I was smitten, because it was a perfect balance of earth and floral. Every stage of the perfume offered a new olfactory twist, taking me from the thrill of a grand jeté to the leather and animal smells of backstage. I enjoyed knowing the backstory of the perfume’s creation, but ultimately, the perfume itself won me over completely.
