Working with some of the most talented "noses" in the industry, Penhaligon's frequently incorporates a touch of tongue-in-cheek British appeal and its distinctive heritage, which has earned the brand a global following of fragrant enthusiasts.
Penhaligon's was initially established as a barbershop in the late 1800s. William Penhaligon, the barber in residence, was the mastermind behind the company's inaugural fragrance, Hammam Bouquet, which was inspired by the Turkish Hammam baths.
Penhaligon's established itself as one of the UK's most prominent fragrance houses, with boutiques located in key international cities and throughout the country. This was achieved through the introduction of additional perfumes, including Blenheim Bouquet, Bluebell, and English Fern, which were fragrant classics.
The brand has experienced a renaissance in the past decade, shedding its "olde-worlde" image through strategic marketing and collaboration with some of the most talented "noses" in the industry, including Bertrand Duchaufour and Alberto Morillas, to develop distinctive, charismatic, and, let's not forget, highly addictive blends.
One of the team members will pair you with a signature scent during a "fragrance profiling" at one of the boutiques. However, what is the appeal of being restricted to a single option? Penhaligon's is the epitome of British perfumery, distinguished by its apothecary-style vials that are adorned with a miniature "bow tie" around the neck. The following are eight fragrances that are worth exploring:
How we tested
We observed the way in which each fragrance warmed up on our skin, paying attention to the bouquet's uniqueness (did it resemble every other perfume available?). We also explored Penhaligon's Scent Library, which features their most popular fragrances, from the lighter, fresher scents to the more opulent, smokey scents, to determine which ones truly demonstrated their fragrance capabilities.
Most Popular Penhaligon's scents
Penhaligon’s juniper sling
Best: Overall
At a launch party that was being held at an NCP carpark and was decorated as an illicit speakeasy, our tester first encountered this particular fragrance. It may appear peculiar, but it was actually quite appropriate, as this perfume is based on our British affinity for gin.
This fragrance is as invigorating and revitalizing as a gin and tonic, and it virtually leaps out of the bottle while performing the Charleston. Its black pepper notes deliver a sharp "alcoholic" bite, while the fresh juniper berries and orange evaporate to disclose a warm base of cinnamon, sugar, and cherry. The Great Gatsby-style box and bottle are equally breathtaking if the scent itself wasn't inebriating enough.
Penhaligon’s luna
Best: For something glamorous yet unusual
This sparkling and ethereal fragrance is appropriately named Luna. The fragrance is characterized by shimmering citrus top notes that deliver a zesty punch. However, it is not entirely sweet and light; the presence of rich jasmine and mossy green notes of fir balsam adds a unique character and a touch of bite. We would describe it as the feminine counterpart to the exceedingly seductive Endymion (£115, Penhaligons.com). It is undeniably seductive, albeit not in an overt manner.
In our opinion, it is the perfume equivalent of Aubrey Beardsley's otherworldly pen and ink illustrations, which depict enigmatic women with black Medusa-like hair and magnificent billowing gowns. It exudes a subtle allure that gradually overcomes you. Essentially, it is both dazzling enough to be worn on a summer evening and toasty enough to be curled up on a winter afternoon.
Penhaligon’s The World according to Arthur
Best: For fans of rich, smoky scents
Arthur, the most recent installment of Penhaligon's portraits series, is somewhat of a black sheep. The series is inspired by the foppish characters that appear in Sunday night period dramas. This smoky, spicy blend is a smooth operator, and it is accompanied by an eye-catching crimson bottle adorned with a dragon's head. Although incense is the primary note, this fragrance is not as overtly religious as one might anticipate. Rather, it is subtly blended with warm sage, which is moderated by sweet tonka bean notes (which are strikingly similar to vanilla) to impart a sense of vitality and longevity.
Penhaligon’s the favourite
Best: For aspiring ladies of the manor
The powdery iris notes impart a "vintage makeup bag" quality to this, while the addition of musk and sandalwood adds a richness that lends it a sophisticated, mature feel. It is a sugary, sweet olfactory delight that we believe Lady Penelope would wear with her pink twinset and pearls, as its bottle is adorned with a pink velvet bow. Additionally, it dries to a gentle whisper on the epidermis.
It has a slightly sensual quality as a result of the musks, which have a "skin-like" quality. This reminds me of Vanessa Kirby as Princess Margaret in The Crown, who swans around in Dior couture, accessorized with a glass of whiskey and a grimace. This would also be an excellent wedding fragrance, particularly for a traditional bride who desires to experience the "princess for a day" experience.
Penhaligon’s Endymion
Best: For a seductive men’s scent
Although it has been determined that "pheromonic fragrance/The Lynx Effect" is merely marketing jargon, our tester has consistently preferred this smoky, seductive fragrance for more than a decade when it comes to aromas that are intended to seduce women. It emerges from the container with a zesty bergamot aroma and unfolds in a manner reminiscent of a peacock's plumage, characterized by woods, smoke, and leathery undertones.
The name Endymion is derived from Greek mythology, where it refers to the incredibly handsome son of Zeus. The Goddess of the Moon was so captivated by his dashing appearance that she induced him to fall into a deep slumber, allowing her to gaze upon him alone. Although this fragrance may not produce the same effect, its delicate allure is even more apparent when it is applied to a shirt collar. If you are in search of a new fragrance that is both sophisticated and timeless, yet also incredibly seductive, this is the perfect choice for a male.