Cedre Atlas

One of only a handful of fragrances I truly adore but wouldn't purchase due to its limitations. The cedarwood notes are expertly balanced by Atelier's signature citrus accord, resulting in a fresh and gentle scent. Unfortunately, this is where the pleasant experience ends. On skin, it performs poorly and lacks longevity, much like many other perfumes from this brand.

This perfume is a potent blend of zesty sweetness and tartness, with an initial burst of lemony freshness that gradually settles into a serene, refined woody aroma dominated by smooth cedar notes. The scent evokes the crisp, untouched purity of freshly fallen snow, inviting me to wrap myself in its comforting warmth even as winter's chill has already begun to fade.

Upon initial application, this fragrance unfurls from a vibrant citrus to a rich woody accord infused with subtle notes of bergamot and vetiver, boasting earthy undertones reminiscent of a cedar forest trek on a crisp day. Its robust, natural quality is more suited for a masculine or confident feminine wearer, as it lacks the subtlety of a delicate fragrance. Notably, this scent's longevity is its Achilles' heel, disappearing all too soon.

Atelier Cologne Cedre Atlas presents an unexpected interpretation of cedar, which veers more towards freshness and fruitiness than its woody essence. The name doesn't quite match the scent experience, as it opens with citrus and blackcurrant that eventually give way to apricot in the heart. Unfortunately, this note becomes overwhelming for me just a few minutes after application, making the fragrance less enjoyable. Perhaps omitting the apricot would have resulted in a more harmonious blend, showcasing the potential of the combined notes. The base is fairly standard, with prominent vetiver and minimal amber detectable. I've noticed subpar performance on my skin, with limited projection even when applying a generous amount. While it may appeal to others, Cedre Atlas isn't for me. Its unique take on cedar might interest those who appreciate apricot notes, but at $125 for 100ml, it's an option that doesn't resonate with me.

This perfume doesn't evoke a typically unisex scent, it's more reminiscent of a man's fragrance. Initially, I didn't care for the smell and left the bottle untouched. However, after using some air freshener and re-experiencing the scent, I was surprised to find that I really like it! The refreshing and zesty aroma is pleasant, without being overly masculine.