Phuong Dang is a line of niche perfumes founded by a Vietnamese visual artist that resides in Singapore. The Noses of the perfumers are French and people you’ve probably heard of. Months ago, I reviewed Liquid Red, a perfume that reminds me of fancy French cosmetics and partying all night. Being a rose lover, I decided to try another leather-rose in the line, Cryptic.
There’s not much to know about Cryptic other than it’s a dark, leather rose. It opens with dry/brut champagne aldehydes. At first, I think it’s peachy aldehydes and then I realize it’s not peach. It’s carrots. It’s crisp carrot aldehydes. The opening is followed a rose-heavy bouquet of plush flowers. Like Liquid Red, this one also reminds me of velvety red rose petals. There’s also iris, which is sharp and reminiscent of those irises that wore power suits back in the 80’s. There’s a soft leather in the background. This is paired with a balsamic oakmoss. This is what solidifies Cryptic’s title as a “dark rose”.
Notes listed include aldehydes, suede, carrot, magnolia, Turkish rose, Moroccan rose, rose, peony, iris, oak, oakmoss, amber, castoreum and musk. Launched in 2016. PERFUMER – Bertrand Duchaufour
Give Cryptic a try if you like “darker roses” or rose chypres. Or perfumes like Montale Aoud Purple, Neela Vermiere Creations Mohur Extrait, ScentStory 24 Platinum, Mona di Orio Rose, Juliette Has a Gun Vengeance Extreme and/or Memo French Leather Rose.
Projection and longevity are above average.
Cryptic is available in two sizes (1.7 oz and 3.4 oz) retailing for $300 and $450 at Barneys.
Victoria’s FInal EauPINION – Leather rose. As a rose lover, I like wearing it. But, I admit that it isn’t really a necessary addition for me. Other brands already offer something similar in theme (and cost a lot less).
Want more reviews? Try…
Fragrantica – Member reviews
*Disclaimer – Sample provided by PR. I am not financially compensated for my review. My opinions are my own. Product pic from Barneys. Gail Patrick pic from joltenjoeswife.livejournal.com