Thursday, May 25, 2006

REVIEW: Le Labo Vetiver 46 (2006)

Notes: Vetiver, olabinum, cedre, labdanum, amber, bergamot, vanilla, black pepper, gaiac wood and clove.

Pros: A scent with the "wow" factor - sprayed it on this morning having never smelled it before and actually exclaimed "wow"...

Cons: Really none...other than the limited distribution and price tag.

Reminds me of: The vetiver has a sweetness to it (perhaps because of the clove and vanilla) that reminds me of CSP Vetyver Haiti.

Development: This one didn't really unfold or develop much.

Longevity: Very good - about 6 hrs.

Sillage: Perfect - enough so that I was offered a compliment, but not so much that it was overwhelming.

Where can I buy it? .5 oz $45; 1.7 oz $115; 3.7 $180 at LeLaboFragrances.com.

Bottleworthy? A must-try for vetiver lovers!

The Bottom Line: Well, Vetiver 46 isn't going to win any awards for originality, but it definitely gets my award for most wearable vetiver fragrance. Though I'm not really a die-hard fan of the grassy vetivers (Guerlain), the dark earthy vetivers (Villoresi), or the lighthearted takes on vetiver (ElizabethW), Le Labo's Vetiver 46 offers a well-rounded composition in which the supporting players are just as interesting, and the vetiver, though ever-present is surprisingly enjoyable. Overall, an easy-to-wear oriental with just enough of the sweet and woody to keep the composition interesting. I'm looking forward to wearing this one again. Well done!

Rating (out of 10): 9 (and that's coming from someone who isn't a vetiver lover).

What's your favorite take on vetiver?
*Bottle in image is Bergamote 22

Stay tuned for a review of Montale's Vetiver des Sables next Thursday!