Grandiflora - Magnolia Grandiflora Michel

Head Notes

Zitrische Notes, Bergamot, Grapefruit

Heart Notes

Jasmine, Ylang - Ylang, Magnolia

Base Notes

Vetiver, Patchouli, Musk

Grandiflora - Magnolia Grandiflora Michel

There are two interpretations of the magnolia flower in the Grandiflora stable; one composed by Michel Roudnitska, and the other composed by the late, great Sandrine Videault. This perfume - Magnolia Grandiflora Michel - was composed by Michel Roudnitska.

Michel's interpretation of the magnolia stresses the creamier, indolic facets of the flower, which he emphasizes with heaps of buttery white jasmine and fruity, banana-ish ylang ylang. It is rich, unctuous, and although barely sweet, has something of a custardy texture. But it is also bright and fresh, thanks to the sizzling trio of citrus fruits in the opening notes - grapefruit, lemon, and bergamot - as well as an earthy, grassy vetiver drydown. Thus, the billowing magnolia is feted and celebrated, but also nicely restrained by the fresher, limpid notes that bookend it.