Mandarin

Clive Christian Mandarin unfolds as a citrus composition of considerable restraint and sophistication, eschewing the expected sugar-rush trajectory in favour of something altogether more architectural. The opening barrage of Sicilian mandarin, bergamot, and lime creates an immediate brightness, but notice how the basil and coriander cut through with peppery precision—this isn't candy-floss citrus, but rather a green, herbal interpretation that recalls the scent of citrus leaves bruised between your fingers. The nectarine and tangerine add a subtle stone-fruit warmth rather than jammy sweetness, whilst the ginger provides a faint spice that prevents the composition from becoming too pretty.

What distinguishes this fragrance is the restraint of its floral heart. Rather than drowning in white florals, Clive Christian allows the freesia and lily of the valley to emerge as whispers—pale, airy presences that converse delicately with the jasmine and may rose. The lavender adds a subtle herbal continuity, bridging the citrus-floral transition without jarring. This is a fragrance for someone who finds conventional florals cloying; there's an almost translucent quality to the middle notes, as though you're catching fleeting floral impressions through the citrus veil.