Enlèvement au Sérail / FK No. 3 (Parfums MDCI)

By Dane

Words fail me (well, almost). Enlèvement au Sérail might be one of the most beautiful floral-chypres ever created, while at the same time coming in one of the most beautiful (and over-the-top) bottles.

Opening with a burst of bergamot and sparkling aldehydes, EaS moves quickly into a stunning jasmin highlighted with ylang and tuberose. This isn't a truly groundbreaking composition...what it is, however, is an improvement on a well-played tune. Patchouli (and I would guess oakmoss) ground the floral aspects and reminds me of greats like Mitsouko, but with a modern twist. The peachy colour of the liquid itself emphasizes this comparison. Kurkdijan seems to have paid homage to greats like Jacques Guerlain with this outstanding creation.

While intended for a feminine crowd, Elèvement au Sérail is so striking that I wouldn't think twice about wearing.

Now if only MDCI would hire someone to design their website and keep their image on par with their remarkable scents.

Perfumer: Francis Kurkdjian
Notes: Bergamot, Mandarin, Jasmin, Rose, Wallflower, Ylang Ylang, Tuberose, Vetiver, Patchouli, Vanilla, Sandalwood