Papillon Artisan Perfumes - Bengale Rouge

Bengale Rouge is an exquisite fragrance inspired by the captivating play of light and shadow on the fur of Liz Moore's Bengal cat, Mimi. Unlike the bold sensuality of fragrances like Salome, Bengale Rouge offers a softer, more cozy-spiced interpretation of amber, reminiscent of the gentle allure of a cat stretching in the sun.

The fragrance opens with a delicate attar-like rose and the creamy richness of sandalwood, wrapped in the earthy sweetness of rooty iris. These notes create a warm and inviting aura, reminiscent of a snug embrace. Adding to this allure are the heady-spiced resins, which lend a sensual warmth to the composition without veering into overt animalic territory.

As Bengale Rouge develops, it reveals a benzoin-rich vanilla accented by caramelized labdanum and clove-scented opoponax. The Turkish rose adds a touch of citrusy brightness, balancing the richness of the resins and vanilla. This combination evokes a sense of opulence and elegance, reminiscent of classic perfumes like Shalimar and Opium, yet with a modern twist.

What sets Bengale Rouge apart is the clever addition of edible vanilla, adding a gourmand element that is both enticing and contemporary. This edible quality subtly enhances the overall composition, creating a harmonious interplay between the sweet vanilla and the dry, spicy resins. The result is a golden, opulent fragrance that mirrors the interplay of light and dark on Mimi's fur coat, capturing a moment of timeless beauty and allure.