Manos Gerakinis Quintessence Review + Exceptional Amber Giveaway

Manos Gerakinis quintessence

Manos Gerakinis Quintessence photo by Steven @

 Are you familiar with Manos Gerakinis? He’s a Greek Creative Director who often informs many of his eponymous fragrances with the history of his homeland as well as “bottles” his personal viewpoint on fragrance. “What’s in a Perfume? Does it captivate the essence of time? Is perfume the art that makes memory speak? In the case of Manos Gerakinis Quintessence, one of the first perfumes he launched in 2015 was inspired by the philosopher Plato who spoke about the elements of the cosmos and lists the following: earth, water, fire, air and aether (otherwise quintessence) – the fifth essence.  with a mélange of beautiful spices.

Manos Gerakinis

Manos Gerakinis courtesy of the perfumer

 “I love to add a philosophical question to my fragrance collection and here is what would the ultimate element of the world smell like? And we came up with Manos Gerakinis Quintessence, a fragrance that combines flowers, woods, spices, herbs and plants and in some way all four elements in one”. -A Note from the Brand.

Manos Gerakinis Quintessence is a thoughtfully crafted ambery balsamic oud fragrance. There have been many takes on amber-vanillas, but Quintessence is, in my opinion, one of the most artistic and versatile. –Michelyn Camen, Editor-in-Chief

Top Notes: Saffron, Clove, Black pepper; Heart Notes: Davana, Patchouli, Cedarwood, Agarwood; Base Notes: Amber, Vanilla, Benzoin balm

Editor’s Note: Manos Gerakinis Omen is a finalist in the independent category of Art And Olfaction awards (read Nicoleta’s stunning review) and Anthem is a finalist for The Fragrance Foundation UK in the Category of Perfume Extraordinaire. Good luck Manos!

Please read Lauryn’s review of Immortelle

Robert Herrmann (RIP) review of Pivoine

Here in the USA Manos Gerakinis collection is currently available at Perfumology

 

Manos Gerakinis Quintessence is reviewed by Video Journalist Steven Gavrielatos

Bottle provided for this review, opinions his own

QUINTESSENCE by Manos Gerakinis Parfums

photo courtesy of Manos Gerakinis

Thanks to the generosity of Mr. Gerakinis we have a 100 ml tester bottle of Manos Gerakinis Parfums Quintessence (290€) for one registered reader in the EU  UK or USA  and Redolessence subscriber.  YOU MUST REGISTER and leave a comment on this site. To be eligible, please leave a comment saying what sparks your interest based on Michelyn’s introduction and Steven’s review and where you live. Draw closes 5/1/2022

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59 comments

  • Sorohan Adriana says:

    Davana is the quintessence of all the flowers highlighted brilliantly in Manos Gerakinis Quintessence. I hope I win it. I am from Bucharest Romania Europe

  • Cameron says:

    Michelyn’s comment about it being an exquisite amber-vanilla piqued my interest, and Steven’s review sold me on it. I love vanilla and amber, but it sounds from their descriptions as though this one is the cream of the crop. Steven also mentions saffron and pepper, which are two of my other favorites. I live in Virginia, USA, and I’m thrilled to be a part of this community!

  • safegotem says:

    Sounds like a great winter fragrance. Spicy, oud, & amber so performance doesn’t seems to be a problem either. 8 hrs+. Good luck to everybody who enters.
    Martinsville, Virginia USA
    Instagram: @safegotem

  • Anca Tse says:

    The idea of adding a philosophical question to Mr. Gerakinis’ fragrance collection sparks my interest totally.

    I live in Portugal, and I’d love a taste of Quintessence

  • Jeremi says:

    The amazing notes of the fragrance and it’s uniqueness sparks my interest. I live in Poland, EU.

  • Karl Topham says:

    Good luck to Manos . So pleased to hear Omen was shortlisted for the A&O Awards. Quintessence sounds of interest as do the others reviewed. Thanks for highlighting this brand Michelyn.

  • FC says:

    From the review, it seems that Manos Gerakinis Quintessence is a spicy amber with vanillc elements. It has a noticeable benzoin note and seems apt for intimate occasions. I am in US.

  • Cdub5 says:

    Both Michelyn and Steven point out how this fragrance takes prominent notes in different categories and the way they blend together and work off one another is truly special. Manos Gerakinis strived to take the quintessential elements of earth and come together to create this fragrance, and he succeeded. I love, love the notes in the breakdown. This is a fragrance right up my alley. Thank you, Mr. Gerakinis, for the generous giveaway and good luck to everyone! Oklahoma, United States

  • Scott Teague says:

    Sounds like a wonderful and beautiful fragrance. Thanks for the giveaway! Good luck everyone.

  • Jake Dauod says:

    What sparks my interest the absolute most is that Michelyn thinks this amber is one of the most artistic and versatile. That truly says something about this fragrance, and alone is enough to warrant a sample at least. For Steven’s review, I loved the in-depth into the fragrance notes. When I first saw the notes listed, my fragrant heart was doing summersaults because I loved each note, but I couldn’t guess the precise smell. Steven really cleared that up for me and it makes me want to try the perfume even more. This is such a wonderful draw, thank you so so much. I’m keeping my fingers crossed because I really would love to try this one. Kind regards from IL, USA.

  • anthony says:

    Always interesting to read new article from @Cafleurebonofficial, thank you Michelyn Camen for introducing to Manos Gerakinis Quintessence-“fragrance that combines flowers, woods, spices, herbs and plants and in some way all four elements in one”.
    In Steven’s video review was great detailing description of the bottle and fragrance composition, amber/ vanilla/oud at the best.
    I’m in Florida USA

  • verosh says:

    I like when perfumers add their own heritage to their products as I feel this provides more complexity to their inspiration. The name Quintessence sets the bar very high and it only makes me wonder how will this perfume will fit into it. Just by reading about all the ingredients it feels that it probably has a lot of stages and moments and will probably be a journey to experience as it dries down. One ingredient make me slightly nervous: the clove, but according to Stephen the eugenol will only add to the spiciness which just right what I like. Regards from NJ, USA

  • Mike W says:

    Michelyn’s introduction and Steven’s review of Quintessence have really piqued my interest in this fragrance due to their comments on the versatility of this amber fragrance. I am from NY.

  • Riccardo Calcagno says:

    Another interesting video from Steven and great article from Ca Fleure Bon. I like the idea behind it and the inspiration from the philosopher Plato.
    The melange of ingredients seems to really be working, curious to try
    Riccardo from Italy

  • Benny says:

    I love vanilla fragrances I hope it smells as good as it was reviewed on Redolessence only one way to find out here’s hoping and fingers crossed luck to everyone stay positive =)

  • Nikolina_84 says:

    First of all, I just love the philosophy behind this creation. Second, it’s true that there have been many takes on amber-vanillas, so I find it tempting that Michelyn thinks Quintessence is one of the most artistic and versatile.
    Hugs from Croatia, EU.

  • Cesar says:

    I like the spices that make the smell exotic according to Steven’s review. I’m located in New York, USA.

  • Miguel Iván Martínez says:

    What sparks my interest when it comes to an exquisite perfume?, it’s the fire and the saffron and black pepper top notes, the moment the perfume makes a people turn their heads and compliment the perfume it’s the gold.

  • TheNewGooi says:

    I really loved the review by Redolessence. Kinda hoping to win lol. I’m a sucker for amber based fragrances and I love the vanilla note!

  • Niinocka says:

    Another zingy review! Thank you for sharing your expertise and passion with the world, Steve.

    I particularly liked that another Greek-based house has been presented on Cafleurebon in the last few days. Besides that, I am intrigued by diversified note breakdown, which consists of some of my favorite notes. Not overly sweet vanilla with a melange of spices enveloped in amber accord at the beginning is the composition that seems right up to my alley.

    I have to admit that I got acquainted with Manos Gerakinis by watching this video. I really love Steve highlighting that Manos Gerakinis’ fragrances have a very deliberate sense about them, and one can pick on the thoughtfulness that went into a composition.

    My additional desire to try Quintessence was sparked also by Michelyn’s introduction prizing it as one of the most artistic and versatile amber-vanilla fragrances.
    Thank you for a very generous giveaway! Greetings from Slovenia (EU)!

  • Amaziz89 says:

    Top Notes: Saffron, Clove, Black pepper; Heart Notes: Davana, Patchouli, Cedarwood, Agarwood; Base Notes: Amber, Vanilla, Benzoin balm. I am just in love with the notes and both Steven and Michelyn commented on how the notes just play of each other. This sounds like a majestic fragrance. Thanks a million from the UK

  • Ozzyaziz says:

    Manos Gerakinis Quintessence is a thoughtfully crafted ambery balsamic oud fragrance. There have been many takes on amber-vanillas, but Quintessence is, in my opinion, one of the most artistic and versatile. – A beautiful description by Michelyn I am intrigued how it will smell like on skin. Both Steven and Michelyn have praised this fragrance this sounds amazing. Thanks a lot from the UK

  • NituNicolae says:

    This truly feels like the ultimate fragrance. I have only heard of davana, but i am assuming it smells powerfull and deep. What an amazing opportunity! I have been watching Redolessence for 2-3 years now and I love the way he accurately describes fragrances. Greetings from Romania, EU.

  • Steve A says:

    I learned from the intro that this perfume is a take on amber-vanilla. From the vid I learned the full list of notes. US

  • Linda70 says:

    The name of this fragrance takes me back to the studies of Greek philosophy, which I adore. I associate perfume with the magnificent Greek history. From the review the name definitely lives up to the scent.
    Linda

  • zamar says:

    Thanks, Michelyn and Steven! I am always in for spicy-oriental perfumes. I would say most people are afraid of cloves note, but cloves take all oriental to another level of sensuality. Thanks for the opportunity. I am in the US.

  • hshinkoda says:

    I love to hear what’s behind a fragrance. The thoughts of the perfumer. Thank you for the amazing review! I’m very curious to sniff what the fifth element smells like. I love the notes, specially amber saffron and vanilla. Count me in!!!! Massachusetts, US.

  • xoe says:

    A well balanced, not too sweet, spicy amber is perfect. There’s always the fear that it will go too sweet and too vanilla. Or, too sticky as Steven said. Quinessence sounds delicious. I am in the US

  • joetelegram says:

    Hi! What a fascinating concept, taking the flowers, woods, spices, herbs and plants to create “all four elements in one.” As a student of the pre-Socratics, I find myself especially interested in Quintessence and this review.

    This one really makes me think of how fragrance can really ground an individual within the framework of nature.

    I really like the way Steven breaks down the amber nuances in this video. As always, he is able to really paint an olfactory picture with words and his commanding vocabulary! I also appreciate how he can, seemingly on the fly, bring in other connections to other fragrances as well.

    Thank you Michelyn for your words and recommendation as well. With your experience, you words certainly carry much weight. Also, thank you to Manos Gerakinis for your creative directorship and generosity!

    Quintessence sounds absolutely unique and lovely!

    Joseph O’Brien–Roseburg, Oregon (USA)

    Username: joetelegram
    Instagram: @joetelegram

  • WaltherP99 says:

    I know all Manos Gerakinis fragrances, excluding the new Anthem . If I have to rate my favorite ones :
    1. Immortelle
    2. Quintessence
    3. Rose Poetique
    Immortelle i own
    On my skin Quintessence is spicier, compared to what Steven and Michelyn are getting , especially in the opening.
    “A little bit of pepper” , to me it’s more like a heavy punch of black pepper straight to me nostrils, that actually made me sneeze a couple of times, first time I’ve smelled it. The magic happens in the drydown, upscale spicy amber , with resins and woody elements.
    All profiles I already follow, @waltherp99bg
    Thanks a lot
    USA

  • drjedi says:

    As always, I enjoyed Michelyn’s introduction of Manos Gerakinis Quintessence as having been inspired by the philosopher Plato and one of his elements of the cosmos, quintessence. It’s always good to learn about the perfume as well as the perfumer behind it and what made the perfumer design the perfume in a particular way. Of course love Steven’s video reviews, as he does a great job of verbally describing something like a perfume, with so many nuances. Steven does a stellar job of describing Manos Gerakinis Quintessence. I haven’t tried anything by Manos Gerakinis, yet, but this perfume seems absolutely lovely, with amber, spices, and most of all, agarwood, or oud, my favorite. I’d love to try it. Thanks for the review and Michelyn’s introduction. I’m a Redolessence subscriber and from the USA.

  • RonaldJ says:

    Thanks for Introducing me to this House Michelyn!
    I have not heard about Manos Gerakinis before, but it sounds like they have a great fragrance in Quintessence as well as an impressive collection for me to discover on their website.

    Steven’s reviews are always interesting and details. I like that his taste seems to match mine as I’ve enjoyed many of his recommendations. His glaring review of Quintessence certainly has me interesting and I would love to wear this on a romantic date night with my partner.

    Greetings from the UK!

  • phoenixad says:

    Stevens descriptions are always spot on as if you are smelling the fragrance. I am interested in a not overly sweet amber with soft spices. Also, the performance is acceptable for me based on Stevens experience. Both Michelyn and steven agree on the artistic part behind this fragrance so I would like to try this.
    I am from Greece like Gerakinis.

  • GennyLeigh says:

    I always loved the idea of quintessence-the fifth element, aether. Manos Gerakinis seems to combine other elemental scents such as spice, saffron, davana, pepper and amber vanilla as a nod to the aether. Congratulations on Imen and Anthem being finalists. MD, USA.

  • jaysmells says:

    I appreciate that Michelyn and Steven both remarked on this fragrance’s versatility. I’ve found it difficult to find a well-rounded amber fragrance that works in many contexts, and Steven assuaged those fears by mentioning that this could work in a clubbing environment, the office, colder weather and even warmer weather, casual or dressed. I’m very interested in how the clove and black pepper come into this scent and work with the sweeter amber/vanilla combination. Thanks for this!
    USA

  • ThatMulattoDude says:

    Enjoyed Steven’s content and Michelyn’s review of this offering. Amber, vanilla, agar wood combo sounds really dope! I enjoy the subject of philosophy so that particular aspect of this fragrance fascinates me. I’d like to have this in my collection. Many blessings from VA, USA!

  • AndradaIl says:

    Beautiful introduction! I agree, fragrances are the art that makes the makes speak. This, through it’s complexity of materials, seems to be one heck of a fragrance. I’ve been watching Redolessence for some time know and i love his passion and the large pallet of unique fragrances he chooses to stand by. I am from Romana.

  • Starlit12 says:

    I appreciate Michelyn’s explanation about the origin of Quintessence and the philosophical approach of Manos Gerakinis regarding his perfumes. I find it fascinating when perfumery tries to reach out beyond the obvious.
    I also loved Steven’s usual property of language, he has a unique style of describing scents in a very detailed, mature and exhaustive way, to the point where one can almost smell it.
    I live in the EU.
    Thanks.

  • Sonbahia says:

    Michelyn’s comment about the intention of Mr. Gerakinis to answer how the ultimate element of the world would smell like and his brilliant answer with Quintessence is great: an ambery balsamic vanilla/oud fragrance. Steven gives us a passionate (as always) in-depth into the fragrance notes: an unique balanced amber, with a nice vanilla sweetness with my preferred spices ( leathery saffron and not strong black pepper) and “biblical” resines. All high quality materials in here and very versatile to use! (that is important). I am in Spain, EU.

  • Dazi83 says:

    A well thought through ambery balsamic oud fragrance always sparks my interest! It seems divine and I’d love to try it!
    EU

  • LightOfJoy says:

    Thank you for that beautiful introduction, Michelyn. The idea of all four elements in one brings to mind a very balanced perfume.

    Steven’s review is extremely thorough and only makes me want to try this Quintessence more.

    I live in Texas, USA.

  • wallygator88 says:

    Thanks for the great review Steven.

    It was fun to learn about this brand and the perfumer. The spicy opening in this fragrance makes it super interesting .

    Michelyn’s intro was great to read. It’s a mark of how different this fragrance is if she mentions that this is unique.

    Cheers from WI, USA

  • k says:

    I am always, Always ready to add another amber to my wardrobe- and one that Michelyn calls versatile and artistic will work for me! And Steven, I am so intrigued by your description of a spicy vanilla amber- that sounds wonderful. Thank you for the review, writing from the EU.

  • wandering_nose says:

    Oh how I love the idea of weaving a fragrant creation around themes from the history and culture of one’s place of origin! Greece, in many ways being the cradle of the western civilization, is an endless source of amazing inspiration. The concept of trying to capture how the fifth element would smell is so intriguing and kudos to Manos Gerakinis for his attempt! Thank you MIchelyn for the very informative intro! In terms of the composition, following Steven’s perception of the amber accord, it has to be truly stunning. I am a sucker for amber-vanilla-benzoin combos so I am instantly sold. The spicy opening which sets Quintessence apart from other amber based fragrances is an added bonus for me. I also like what Steven emphasizes – that one can pick up on the thoughtfulness that went into every single composition from Manos Gerakinis. The craftsmanship of this perfumer speaks through the awards he has been nominated for. I would be delighted to try Quintessence. I am based in Dublin, Ireland, EU

  • Bassey says:

    Steven had high praise for this fragrance in particular and the house as a whole. Sounds like the vanilla, amber plus the spices and agarwood combine to make this a beautiful combination. “A unique amber fragrance with a spicy personality”… Steven Gavrielatos.
    Maryland, US.

  • mmerline says:

    Natural smelling, welcoming vanilla and amber balanced by benzoin, leathery saffron, and spice—sounds wonderful, especially knowing the spice and woods temper the sweet, rich qualities of that vanilla and amber accord. The way Steven describes the drydown is particularly appealing. Thanks for the review—I always enjoy Steven’s content shown on ÇaFleureBon.

    I’m in the midwest, USA.

  • djobe832 says:

    Michelyn mentioned that Quintessence was the most artistic and versatile amber vanillas…that sold me right there. I’m now realizing that may be may favorite note combo behind rose oud. Steven mentioned that this lasts around 6 hours, but on my skin, 2 sprays lasted well over 8 hrs….on the 6th hour, my wife walked through the door and immediately smelled it.

    Philadelphia Pa

  • Michael Prince says:

    What interests me about Manos Gerakinis Quintessence is the perfect and uniquely styled amber and oud fragrance. Michelyn’s introduction on the brand and the brilliant greek creative director Manos Gerakinis displays his passion for perfumery. Immortelle from the brand seems to get the most attention from the fragrance community due to it’s warm, charming, and gourmand nature, but when I tried discovery set I was most impressed by Quintessence. Steven was was spot on in his detailed and inspirational review. I would love the opportunity to win this beautiful fragrance. I am from the USA.

  • Diana D says:

    I really enjoy amber-vanilla fragrances. They are beautiful on their own but I also find that they layer so well with other scents, particularly rose dominant perfumes. I really got excited after watching Steven’s video. He has such a way of describing a fragrance that makes me want to run out and buy it right away!
    I live in the USA.

  • foreverscents says:

    I enjoyed reading Michelyn’s introduction because it has inspired me to research Plato’s writings about the universe. I also enjoyed Steven’s review. I am new to his channel, and I am impressed with his thorough introduction to Quintessence. I liked the way Steven showed the presentation of the bottle. I also enjoyed Steven’s words about the balsamic and resinous aspects of the fragrance. I am a big fan of vanilla, benzoin and pepper. Steven said that Manos Gerakinis Parfums are always “thoughtfully pieced together.” The notes of Quintessence certainly do indeed sound well-pieced together (just like Steven’s video review).
    I live in the USA.

  • Brian says:

    I truly hope that I win a bottle of this for multiple reasons, e.g. its list of notes. Amber-vanilla fragrances are some of my favorite fragrances, and both Michelyn and Steven caused me to think that “Quintessence” is one of the best ever. I live in the U.S.A.

  • mronhubbard says:

    Hearing Michelyn call this one of the most artistic and versatile of its kind is certainly impressive; and then hearing Steven’s more in-depth thoughts about it really made me want it.
    (USA)

  • IvanVelikov says:

    I like how Quintessence is made , saffron, black pepper, woods and non-juvenile sweetness.
    Sophisticated , elegant fragrance for dressed up, predominantly formal occasions.
    I’ve heard about Manos Gerakinis before , but never had a chance to smell his fragrances.
    Thank you Michelyn , and Steven
    USA

  • Uncle1979 says:

    Steven take on Manos Gerakinis Quintessence reminded me of making Saffron Vanilla Cake, with prunes and pistachios. I imagined eating the cake, while sitting next to fresh cut lumber The mixture of the Cake , and the lumber is how I assume Quintessence would smell.
    Manos Gerakinis i have no experience with, but I’ll make sure to sample both Quintessence , and brown sugar based Immortelle
    Appreciate Michelyn introduction, and the giveaway campaign
    USA

  • Bubeto_GG says:

    I was gifted the Manos Gerakinis discovery set, and like Michelyn said Quintessence is as artistic , as can be. Ambery and vanilic yes , but it’s also quite boozy on me.
    Something in the fragrance is giving me a hint of Wigle’s Saffron Negroni Bottled Cocktail .
    Other than the official notes, on me smells like there are ripe red fruits , hints of cardamom, saffron, and something grassy .
    The fragrance is just magical, I love the lingering sweet and spicy, fruity bitterness.
    Thank you for the opportunity
    USA

  • petergigov says:

    Saffron fragrance are on the rise i see
    In some cultures saffron is considered to be aphrodisiac since ancient times.
    Quintessence is appealing to me because of its darker woody elements , black pepper , the sweeter resins , and vanilla evening the scale perfectly.
    I also like how Steven told us the fragrance is not overly sweet, and childish.
    I don’t have a favorite Manos Gerakinis , the brand is new to me
    Exciting giveaway , USA
    Regards

  • Gig84 says:

    Here we go again, I’m ashamed to admit how much money I’ve spent for fragrance after reading Cafleurebon reviews
    Both Manos Gerakinis Quintessence and
    Immortelle I must try , sexy, playful and inviting fragrances of highest quality
    Thanks for the draw
    USA