I consider myself very fortunate to have had the opportunity to sample and review Mon Précieux Nectar. It's no secret that Guerlain is probably my favorite perfume house, though I have others represented in what I wear, as you know if you've been reading my blog.
Mon Précieux Nectar, is for the true perfumista, the true collector. It retails for (are you ready!) $9,000 for a 1 liter extrait in an Imperial Fountain, a gorgeous hand-made crystal fountain. This picture hardly does it justice.
It is paired with a silver-plated refillable atomizer, all offered in a black leather presentation box.
For the woman who relishes being unique and strives to set the trends instead of following them, Guerlain has created an extremely limited fragrance offering appropriately titled Mon Précieux Nectar. Only sixty-two women in the world will be privileged to wear this scent, all but ensuring the wearers will never cross paths.
Yes, I truly am unique, and I do tend to set trends rather than follow them...ahem...this is true!
Randa Hammami is the nose who worked with Sylvaine Delacourte on this one. Hammami also collaborated with Delacourt for Guerlain's Cruel Gardénia and L’Instant Magic, as well as the two limited edition fragrant oils inspired by Delacourte’s trip to the Middle-East.
Here's a little info:
Mon Précieux Nectar is a floral gourmand with notes:
Top: petitgrain and bitter almond,
Heart: jasmine and orange blossom
Base: sensual woods, incense, vanilla and white musk.
My take:
I find myself saying to myself, "What is it that smells so wonderful?" And then I realize it is me -- this fragrance that I am wearing. It is just enough different than anything I own that it intrigues and surprises me in equal measure. It reminds me of L’Instant Magic, which should come as no surprise, since it revisits the almond-musk of that fragrance. But it is richer and fuller, not powdery. It is altogether more luxurious, as well it should be. It is certainly a way to cushion oneself from the world's negative vibes.
I applied it with an atomizer, so there is some sillage. Even so, it lays close to my skin.
I think it smells heavenly. My 23 yo daughter just said it smells delectable. Did I mention that I love it? If you would like to give me this for my upcoming birthday, I would be very appreciative.
Why did I hesitate to try this one, outside of price?
I expected I would be unable to wear it well, because of the white floral in it, but I underestimated the power of almond, which I love. The almond is paired with orange blossom, reminiscent of Middle-Eastern pastries, but the over-all effect is not the sweet gourmand of Iris Ganache which I found unwearable for me. And it isn't the sharp floral of Jardin de Bagatelle or Champs Elysees.
No, this is a completely lush rendition of floral with just enough sweetness, incense, and Guerlinade accord to balance the various elements, bringing it into a totally modern fragrance with classic inspiration. I'm sure these aspects are what make one think of vintage L’Heure Bleue which is reported to be Ms. Delacourte's favorite fragrance, though almond notes are reported to be her favorite note. Perhaps MPN is her favorite fragrance now!
How and when should you wear it?
This is a fragrance, that if you are lucky enough to own it, you should drench yourself in day or night. I don't think you could overdo it.
Then, if someone admires it on you, as they assuredly will, tell them with a twinkle in your eye what it is. If you are feeling especially open that day, you might offer them a spritz -- after all, you have plenty more where that came from.
OTOH, if you are not feeling friendly, mention the price, with a dismissive, airy wave of your hand. (Eat your heart out...that will teach them not to be nice to you.)
But by all means enjoy it! After all, you are worth it!
I recommend calling or emailing Claire at the Guerlain boutique at the Palazzo in Las Vegas for all your Guerlain needs, including Mon Précieux Nectar. Be sure to say you heard it from me. (702) 732-7008 or GuerlainPalazzo.STORE@lvmhuspc.com
Did I mention that I love it? and I have a birthday coming up?
Karin
Originally posted 2009-08-17 12:00:28.
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Lush is definitely another good word for Mon Précieux Nectar. Lush, delectable, heavenly, succulent, and very exclusive. I like the almond and orange blossom in it. Very yummy.
I absolutely LOVE your perfume reviews. They “almost” make me feel like I’m wearing the scent.
I forgot to add that every time I read on of your perfume reviews I want to run out and buy the perfume . Unfortunately, I can’t
Thank you! Yes, I know how much they can make us wish to at least sample! There are several online places that specialize in samples and decants, so that is a good way to go.