Xerjoff Shingl & a prize draw

By Marina A gorgeous iris scent with an unfortunate name and a cold. There. My review is done. OK, fine, I will elaborate on the key points: Name. The perfume is from Xerjoff's Shooting Stars collection, therefore, upon googling, I am guessing that the name might stand for Shingle Springs meteorite, Shingle Springs, El Dorado Co., California, a meteorite fall discovered in either 1869 or 1870 (source). I am guessing it was not meant to evoke "a viral infection that causes a painful rash" (source). But it does. Iris, to me, is the dominant note in the composition. It emerges early, in the top notes, a couple of seconds after the heady mix of bergamot, basil, anise and rum hits the nasal passages with the smell uncannily similar to that Vicks VapoRub. Thus - iris with a cold. Gorgeous. Can a fragrance that makes one think of a couple of deseases at once be attractive? Apparently it can. I actually like the chilly, mentholated smell of Vicks, so that might be a reason. Another reason is the opulence of the orris accord in Shingl. Not unlike that in the sublime Iriss, it is so thick and buttery, you could cut it with a knife. It also smells warm, like the softest, most luxurious cashmere shawl. The contrast of the coldness of the "Vicks" accord and the warmth of orris is very appealing. Before now, I have only known of tuberose (see Tubereuse Criminelle) and gardenia (Volo Az 686) being treated, pun intended, in this manner. I like the fact that the juxtaposition can be felt from start to the very finish, even in the ambery, slightly vanillic base. Shingl is quite possibly the most unique iris fragrance I have encountered, its weird beauty is something I'd urge you to experience for yourself. Besides, 'tis the season of congestions, wouldn't it be nice to replace the old rub with something this glamorous (and, yes, expensive) and get better in style? On that note, stay healthy, everybody! Shingl is available at Luckyscent and Xerjoff, $345.00-$470.00. If you would like to receive a set of 5 Xerjoff samples, say so in your comment. A commenter will be chosen at random.