So far this year, we’ve been treated to no fewer than six new perfumes from Tom Ford. Make of that what you will. And while you’re considering whether the number reflects the quality of the releases in any way, you might want to watch my review of one of the more recent additions to the brand’s endlessly changing catalogue: a Private Blend called Myrrhe Mystere. Here’s a link to the broadcast: Tom Ford Myrrhe Mystere review.
As an experiment in creating a woody-resinous scent that a) isn’t a foghorn, b) doesn’t have a half-life that would give plutonium an inferiority complex, and c) doesn’t feels as though it was birthed entirely in a Franken-lab, Myrrhe Mystere isn’t devoid of interest. This is meant sincerely. The last few years have shown that it’s all too easy to throw a few synthetics together and give us something brash, vulgar and monstrous. Indeed, this may well be why we’re seeing more brands turning the volume knob down, and opting for so-called quiet luxury. That’s not a term one would normally associate with Tom Ford, but perhaps even their creative forces have decided the time has come to be less ostentatious.
Unfortunately, Myrrhe Mystere’s commendable restraint isn’t enough to lend it a sufficiently distinctive personality to justify its existence, especially when you consider its almost comically horrific price tag. Yes, the resinous facets are likeable enough, but as the drydown approaches, the synthetic sandalwoods aren’t kept at bay completely, showing their ersatz colours too often for comfort. And although the whole doesn’t end up anywhere near the ‘must avoid’ territory of Penhaligon’s Halfeti, it’s difficult to see what it adds to this particular genre. Who knows: perhaps that’s the mystery alluded to in its name.
Persolaise
[Tom Ford Myrrhe Mystere review based on a sample provided by the brand in 2023. Myrrhe Mystere is credited by several sources to perfumer Rodrigo Flores-Roux.]
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Speaking of sandalwood. Just got in Kangitten’s Mysore Sandalwood Special Reserve. It’s a 3 ml, but very nice. I also fpicked up rom the same place, Kangitten, Premium Black Meat Mysore Sandalwood Heartwood Grains.It’s a 50 grams.Nice and buttery. Picked both for under the 100 mark. Ya know, I was wearing vintage Antaeus today. I’d much rather wear and pay up for vintage Antaeus than most of the new Tom Ford’s. I bought Halfeti in the body spray form a little while back.Why, everyone was talking about it in a postive manner. When I tested it out, OMG, gag. Resold.
Have a great week ahead Persolaise and thank you for your honesty.
Thank YOU so much for your comment. You’ve made me realise I really ought to try to get some vintage Antaeus one day.