Penhaligon's Juniper Sling

Inspired by London Dry Gin, Juniper Sling is this year's new potion from venerated British fragrance house, Penhaligon's. Created by Olivier Cresp (of Thierry Mugler Angel fame), Juniper Sling is a playful, chilled homage to the Bright Young Things of London’s heady roaring twenties.

"For enigmatic boys and girls, Juniper Sling is a crisp cocktail shot of gin with the freshness of juniper, cool measures of angelica and brandy and a beating libertine heart of black pepper, cardamom, soft leather and orris. A gourmand base of brown sugar, black cherry and amber add sensuality to the scent."

The first whiff of it conjures up a brilliantly smooth, icy gin. It's refreshing but more laconically cool rather than sharp, thanks to the elegant leathery note. The gourmand base turned out to be understated without being too treacly. On my skin, the fragrance peters out after about two to three hours, as happens with most fragrances, but it is an eau de toilette after all.

With its smart bow tie and metal shield-like plating, I found Juniper Sling to be intriguing, refined and yet full of character. It makes for a unique addition to one's fragrance wardrobe and well worth a sniff.