Rose Week 2014
Make perfume not war.
My introduction to this line was at Elements in January 2013. I had never heard of this brand before. In fact, I was worried that it was another one of those “perfumes will kill you with their toxic chemicals but ours won’t!” sort of natural perfume line because of the wholesome name. I looked at the sleek bottles and being a rose lover, I picked up The 7 Virtues Noble Rose of Afghanistan. I was quickly greeted by a tall, energetic woman that proceeded to tell me the story behind the brand. I’ve heard lots of brand backstories but I’ve never heard one like that of The 7 Virtues.
I heard about the opium trade and violence. I heard about how her friend was almost killed in Afghanistan. I heard about brave rose growers and distillers in war-torn nations traveling dangerous roads to make an honorable living. I was told that The 7 Virtues buys essential oils from economically distressed countries to make perfumes. The goal is to provide strong economic substitutes to the illegal poppy trade. The woman telling me the story was so enthusiastic and her joy quickly rubbed off on me. The woman speaking was Barb Stegemann, the founder and co-owner of The Seven Virtues, a socially responsible Canadian based perfume house. Barb went on to introduce me to the other fragrances. One uses Haitian vetiver. The other is a peaceful scent of Israeli grapefruit and Iranian basil. She continued to speak but also asked questions about me; she is a natural conversationalist. I found out she has a son named Victor, obviously one of my favorite masculine names. Everything she talked about was so sincere. After talking to Barb, I left believing in the power of perfume.
I could go on and on but I think you’ll find the best information on the company’s site. It has videos about the brand’s journey and interviews with the founders.
Noble Rose of Afghanistan is a rose soliflore. It’s one of those vibrant and dazzling roses. There’s a hint of energetic citrus in the opening. The rose in this is vibrant and “pure” yet has this “doughiness” that I love in my roses. It wears rather linear – a vibrant rose. As it dries down, I do notice the humid carnation. But, I think most people will smell a bouquet of red roses. For the price, this is a stellar fresh rose soliflore. It isn’t sweet or powdery. It’s a “living” sort of rose; a rose with life.
Rose Pro Tip – I love to bathe with Piroutte Rose Are Red soap and follow up with LUSH Ro’s Argan Body Conditioner. And then lavishly spray Noble Rose of Afghanistan. This makes my rose-loving self very happy.
Notes listed include rose, clove, peppercorn and carnation. Launched 2011. PERFUMER – Susanne Lang
Give Noble Rose of Afghanistan a try if you are looking for a rose soliflore. Or if you like perfumes like Pacifica Persian Rose, Annick Goutal Rose Splendide, Jo Malone London Red Roses, Caron Delire de Roses, Comme des Garcons Red Series Rose and/or Diptyque Eau Rose. This fragrance is for anyone that loves a “fresh” rose. Or for anyone looking for a “sheer” rose.
Projection is below average and longevity is average. Personally, I like that this isn’t an overpowering rose. This is one that I like to wear during the day or in the warmer months.
The 1.7 oz EDP retails for $70 at Lord & Taylor. This fragrance is also available in Canada and the UK at these locations.
Victoria’s Final EauPINION – A dazzling rose soliflore; a rose with life. If you love a “fresh” rose, you’ve got to try this. It’s an excellent rose…especially for $70! And I really do love what this brand is doing.
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Fragrantica – Member reviews
More Perfume Power to you Victoria. I would love to meet Barbara oneday someday. I think what you call the wholesome name is a great change from lust-based perfume names. Have you read her book called The 7 Virtues of a Philosopher Queen? Thank you for the link-love. This perfume reminds me of an old song…
“Red Roses for a blue lady
Send them to the sweetest girl in town”
Jordan River recently posted..RealOud – Phoenicia Perfumes – Review
You’d love her. She’s an inspiring person plus very personable.
Oh, I agree. It’s nice to see a non-sexy name or something with a faux “exotic” sounding name. And in this case, the name of the brand and the perfumes all fit with the brand’s goal and message. I think they’re all excellent, especially for $70.
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[…] The Seven Virtues Noble Rose of Afghanistan – Up until I tried this, Annick Goutal dominated this category of “dazzling” roses in my collection. But, I tried The Seven Virtues and fell hard. It’s a fresh, living rose that is so beautiful. Added bonus, this company is amazing. Review here. […]