There are opportunities to sometimes let a single fragrance answer multiple questions I get. One of them is one I get at the beginning of every year. My well-known grouchiness over rose being the only flower most perfume brands seem to think represents spring. I get asked what alternatives are there? There are lots and this review is going to reveal two of them. A more nuanced question is when someone asks does a single ingredient really make a difference? Molton Brown Lily & Magnolia Blossom Eau de Parfum answers both.
Both titular florals should be equivalent to rose when it comes to spring florals. Lily of the Valley is the flower of May Day for Heaven’s sake. Magnolia is a scrubbed clean version of the powerful white flowers. Just as innocent as any debutante rose. That Molton Brown has given them an opportunity to show this makes me happy.
The other part comes because Molton Brown has released two version of Lily & Magnolia Blossom an Eau de Toilette (EDT) and the Eau de Parfum (EDP). They are identically constructed except for one major difference. Pear is added to the mix in the EDP. It adds as a catalyst enlivening everything around it. There is a part of me that thinks the EDT is the brand playing it safe as the fresh floral quality is typical of the season even without using rose. The addition of pear to the EDP creates something more appealing.
I have been enjoying the recent releases from the brand. They have been using a set or regular perfumers, one who is probably behind this. I will update when I find out. That is because whomever is behind this should be recognized for the work.
The Lily & Magnolia Blossom EDP opens with a typical citrus flare of mandarin. It is rapidly followed by the magnolia and the pear. Magnolia is a more innocent white flower. It also has a more prominent woody character. Violet leaves are used to amplify the floral quality. Then the pear comes in. This is that ripe pear that retains its crispness. It has a tart and juicy scent. It adds an insouciant contrast to the floral. Then the lily of the valley appears with its fresh green tinged quality. And the pear ties them together in a springtime trio of promise. A lovely creamy sandalwood is where this all ends.
Lily & Magnolia Blossom EDP has 10-12 hour longevity and average sillage.
Next time you see both on a shelf make sure to compare them. You will find there is more to spring than rose as well as the value of letting the right ingredient in.
Disclosure: This review is based on samples provided by Molton Brown.
–Mark Behnke
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