Iris Prima: The Spirit of the Ballet. Bottled

Iris Prima, the new scent from British fragrance house Penhaligon’s, is a work of olfactory choreography, with Iris Absolute in the role of Prima Ballerina. 

In a unique partnership with English National Ballet, Penhaligon’s set about capturing the very essence of ballet, turning to master perfumer Alberto Morillas as choreographer. Granted exclusive access to English National Ballet dancers Nathan Young and Lauretta Summerscales, as well as rehearsals and hushed glimpses from theatre wings; Alberto has captured every aspect of this remarkable artistic world in the iconic Penhaligon’s bottle. 

A fresh and transparent bergamot opens the dance: its citrus freshness mimicking the graceful flight of the prima ballerina as she leaps into the spotlight. Green amber softens the effect and contrasts with sparkling pink pepper, which resonates like the steps of the ballerina on pointe.

Iris soon takes centre stage, eclipsing all around her with her natural grace and powdery charm, until she begins a sensuous pas de deux with potent Jasmine Sambac. A sense of luminosity comes courtesy of two innovative molecules; Hedione and Paridisione. 

In the base, Alberto introduces an intimate, musky leather note to represent the pointe shoe and then light touches of sandalwood, vetiver, vanilla and benzoin to signify the soul of ancient theatres, as well as the rehearsal studios and corridors of English National Ballet’s home in South Kensington, Markova House. 

Effortlessly elegant and faintly melancholy, Iris Prima offers a fascinating glimpse into the secluded yet magical world of the ballet. 

Head Notes: Bergamot, Green Amber, Pink Pepper

Heart Notes: Iris Absolute, Jasmine Sambac, Hedione, Paradisone

Base Notes: Leather, Vanilla, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Benzoin. 

Prices:

100ml         AED 720 
50ml         AED 510

Available at Penhaligon’s store at The Dubai Mall