Angelos Créations Olfactives Krinos (Angelos Balamis) 2023 + Sea Breeze Muguet Giveaway

Angelos Creations Olfactive

Angelos Créations Olfactives Krinos courtesy of Angelos Balamis

Artisanal perfumer Angelos Balamis marches to his own rhythm, ceaselessly composing distinctive perfumes that tease the senses with their originality. He has most recently created a new extrait which will premiere at the upcoming Esxence Milano 2024  March 6-9– but the last fragrance prior to it is a Luckyscent exclusive: Angelos Créations Olfactives Krinos, a very contemporary, multi-faceted ode to lily of the valley. To date, there is no other lily fragrance I’ve experienced that is quite like it. In order to fully appreciate its uniqueness, one does well to toss aside any preconceived notions about muguet. Or any lily, for that matter.

 

Angelos Balamis of Angelos Creations Olfactives

Angelos Balamis courtesy of the perfumer

Krinos translates as lily of the valley from the Greek, but it also pertains to the lily in general. In floriography, aka the language of flowers (which has existed since Old Testament times, and reached its apex during the Victorian era), the cryptological meaning of muguet is “a return to happiness”. The other lilies’ meanings are largely dependent upon their color, with a specific significance assigned to each one. As we have not yet experienced vernal delights in most of the Western Hemisphere, I view the eternal promise of a return to happiness as a welcome aromatic augury which I gratefully receive with open arms.

  Muguet apped Common use

I inquired about Angelos’ creative process, which he generously shared with me: “Basically, I’m like 95% always inspired to create by molecules and naturals themselves, and this is no exception…it’s a study around muguet that I made years ago in order to create my proprietary muguet accord so I can use it in my creations (I’m a LOTV sucker, I know). So I started from that accord and made a perfume (not so soliflore), a different take on muguet based creations, and as a challenge completely wearable by all genders.”

Krinos by Angelos Creations Olfactives

 Lily by the sea via Pixabay

When we ponder an aquatic-inspired lily fragrance, one that frequently comes to mind is Edouard Fléchier’s limpid aquarelle Lys Mediterranee created for Frederic Malle in 2000. Krinos and Lys Mediterranee couldn’t be more different if they tried. Fléchier’s lily is more floral and bosomy, even unctuous – contrasted with Angelos Créations Olfactives Krinos, which possesses a lighthearted snappiness and brisk tempo. Salinity is present in each – but Krinos has the upper edge here, in that its marine breeze quality is airier and more light-filled, less spicy and more definitively unisex than the Malle. I don’t sense a ginger lily; it feels more like Lily as an entity instead, partnered with a delicately vulnerable muguet which is feather-light and never cloys. The tangy, tonic character of rhubarb and cassis are emboldened by a soupçon of Timut pepper, with its zesty, multi-citrus tones and tender, spicy floralcy. Deftly administered quantities of sweet, animalic jasmine sambac and orange blossom provide a lovely counterbalance – and they serve to furnish just enough rondeur to keep Krinos fascinating. Krinos’ grounding elements are gossamer in nature: a discreet sandalwood is embellished by filmy amber, nigh weightless – and those mystery accords which comprise Angelos’ ‘sea breeze’. After all, inscrutability renders all things just that modicum more pleasurable, even forbidden. Angelos Créations Olfactives Krinos smells timeless, an unconstrained perfume fit for a multitude. It is intended to enchant a wide audience – and it succeeds brilliantly.

Notes: rhubarb, raspberry, Timut pepper, lily, lily of the valley, orange flowers, jasmine sambac, cassis, white musc, sandalwood, ethereal amber, sea breeze

Sample kindly provided by the perfumer – many thanks! My nose is my own…

~ Ida Meister, Deputy and Natural Perfumery Editor

Krinos Angelos Creations Olfactives

Angelos Créations Olfactives Krinos

Thanks to the generosity of Angelos Balamis we have a 30 ml flacon of Krinos for a registered reader in the USA or EU only. To be eligible, you must register. Please leave a comment saying what strikes you about Krinos based on Ida’s review and where you live. Have you tried anything from Angelos Creations Olfactives? Giveaway ends 2/17/2023

Great News: If you live in the USA, Angelos Creations Olfactives are available at Luckyscent.com to buy or sample and  Krinos is an exclusive -Michelyn

Angelos Balamis was Michelyn’s rising star of 2020 and an Artisan Perfumer of the Year 2022.

Angelos Creations Olfactives Karikia was a top 10 of 2023 for Lauryn and Fougeriste was one of Lauryn’s top ten of 2022

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39 comments

  • I never heard of floriography before. Love the meaning of this delicate flower. I will toss aside my preconceived notion of Lily of the Valley. I am not very familiar with it in fragrance other than as I child I had the Mattel Little Kiddles perfume bottle with the doll inside and I had the Lily of the Valley. Oh how I wish I had saved that. Not familiar with this line. Thanks for the chance. USA.

  • This is so funny! Krinos in Greek would be the equivalent of lily (the regular one, not lily of the valley) in my language. So I am hoping for a round, feminine and somehow narcotic lily (of the valley) based fragrance. The richness of jasmine and orange blossom sounds glorious, and the sea breeze accord makes me think of a mediterranean element (it is, afterall, a Mediterranean nose who worked on it).
    Didn’t have the pleasure to try an Angelos Creations Olfactives fragrance before.
    Commenting from the EU.

  • Maria Malaveci says:

    I have not tried anything from Angelos Creations but would absolutely love to. I knew right away he was Greek, as am I. I’m intrigued to try a perfume with notes of Lily of the valley as it is my birth flower. I hope I’m registered properly. I had some difficulty figuring it out. I’m in the US.

  • Oh man, I recently acquired a sample of Krinos and it is divine! I have yet to try an Angelos Creations Olfactives fragrance that failed to impress. The quality of his creations is remarkable. My favorites so far have been Krinos and Eau De Vertu. Like Ida said, this one isn’t your typical muguet. It definitely has floral character, but the salty air and marine notes keep it balanced so it doesn’t lean too far in that direction. (It’s not a “girly” floral.) Krinos is one of the most uplifting and radiant scents I have tried in quite a while. It is joyous and I think it would be impossible to wear it without smiling. And the sillage .. well, it is truly stupendous. It leaves a massive cloud behind you. This would be absolutely perfect for the warmer days of spring that are right around the corner. I would be more than thrilled to have this in my collection. Best of luck to all. I live in NC, USA.

  • Animalic jasmine as a note really strikes me as a note. I live in Trzebnica, Poland, EU. I never tried anything from this house.

  • I haven’t tried anything from this house but besides gourmands, marine/aquatic scents are my favorite. I have loved the scent of lily-of-the-valley since I was a child. This sounds like a unique take!!
    NY, USA

  • What a delightful journey into the world of Angelos Balamis’ olfactory artistry! This article not only introduces us to the captivating fragrance, Krinos, but also unveils the passionate and innovative approach of the artisanal perfumer. The vivid descriptions of the fragrance’s notes, its unique inspiration from muguet, and the comparison with Lys Mediterranee all contribute to a rich tapestry of sensory exploration.

    Your eloquence in capturing the essence of Krinos, from its lighthearted snappiness to the gossamer grounding elements, leaves readers eagerly anticipating the experience of this timeless perfume. The incorporation of floriography adds a poetic touch, connecting the fragrance to the profound language of flowers and infusing it with deeper meaning.

    Moreover, the insight into Angelos’ creative process, driven by a genuine passion for molecules and naturals, adds a personal and authentic dimension to the narrative. This article is not just a description of a fragrance; it’s an invitation to embark on a fragrant journey, celebrating the artistry and dedication of Angelos Balamis. I can’t wait to explore Krinos and immerse myself in the world of Angelos Créations Olfactives!

  • What strikes me is that Krinos by Angelos is meant to defy traditional expectations of lily fragrances. I’m struck by the nuanced interplay of rhubarb, Timut pepper which is one of my favorite notes, and delicate floral notes, creating a scent that exudes lightness and versatility. While I haven’t had the pleasure of experiencing any of Angelos’ creations yet, Krinos certainly is tempting for me and leaves me eager to explore his unique fragrance portfolio.

    I am from the EU.

  • kusudamakitten98 says:

    I enjoyed learning about the cryptological meaning of muguet as “return to happiness”! This fragrance sounds like it embodies that idea — I’d love to try this lily of the valley composition with the salty sea breeze accord. I am also curious about the animalistic jasmine. I have not tried anything from Angelos Creations Olfactives before but this scent sounds delightful!

    From NJ, USA

  • Sorohan Adriana says:

    What a lovely spring parfume! I love this floral combination lily, lily of the valley, orange flowers, jasmine sambac. I am from EU

  • I have not tried any of Angelos Creations Olfactives, yet. I wasn’t going to even read about a lily of the valley fragrance as it’s not a note I like, but the sea air bit tempted me and here I am entering in hopes that my name will be drawn. The review makes this sound SO interesting and so unlike any other LOV scent I’ve tried, that I really do want to try this! I am a sea note sucker too, that doesn’t hurt. I live in the US.

  • I love how this fragrance, while it focuses on the lily (of the valley), is less of a solinote and more of an olfactive experience with different facets of the flower. This would be my first time trying something from Angelos Creations Olfactives. I live in the US-New Haven, CT.

  • For me, the lily by the sea embodies pure happiness, transporting me to a moment in time where I leaned against a sturdy fir tree on a sandy beach, gazing at the vast sea and the untamed lilies. It serves as a poignant reminder that nature knows no bounds, and we, too, are an integral part of this boundless beauty.
    Although I’ve never experienced Agelos’ creations firsthand, my connection to him is deeply rooted in my everlasting love for Greece. Winning this draw would mean more to me than any other, as it holds the promise of bringing a piece of Greece, and perhaps a touch of Agelos’ artistry, into my life.
    Hugs from EU

  • I didn’t know about floriography! How cool. Nice that it’s not a solinote, since muguet usually makes me sick in that case. I am so curious about this one, unfortunately get stuff from luckyscents is not easy here in EU! I am from Italy.

  • Angelos Créations Olfactives Krinos stands out in Ida Meister’s review for its unique take on the lily of the valley note, blending it with elements like rhubarb, Timut pepper, and a ‘sea breeze’ accord for a fresh, unisex fragrance. This innovative approach intrigues me, especially the way it promises a “return to happiness.” I’m eager to experience its multifaceted character and would be thrilled to win a bottle of Krinos to explore its artistic depth firsthand.

  • I never heard of floriography before.
    I’m a bit familiar with Lily of the valley smell, but i’m not really having a lot of it in my fragrance collection.
    it would be good to get my nose on this one !
    From France (EU)

  • The description of this perfume is beautiful, as is certainly this creation, far from my classic perfumes.
    I don’t own anything from this brand which has a unique charm for me.
    Linda (EU)

  • Ooh I love Angelo’s work!! I have Angeliki and Figue de Vertu which are both so different and amazing and both have LotV in them too! Angelo is such a kind person and always takes such care with each order. I love his smile! His perfumes are just splendid. I can’t wait to try Krinos because who else is more equipped to capture the Sea breeze and join it with his beautiful florals? I am intrigued by the rhubarb and I love the idea of adding cassis to bring out the tart sweetness of the other florals and a sheen of amber to spice it just enough. This sounds amazing…. Hoping to win and thank you for the chance in California.

  • A marine lily, and lily of the valley, this time of year seems the perfect scent for Lent. My mother’s favorite flower was lily of the valley although she loved all lilies, this reminds me of her. In maryland.

  • recursivemask says:

    I didn’t know that the roots of flower language ran all the way back to biblical times! Lilies are such a nice scent, and this arrangement promises to deliver. I havne’t tried anything from Angelos. US.

  • oliviatworkowsky says:

    What strikes me about this perfume is the fact that it is a unisex perfume that was described as a tender spicy floral scent, and had some orange blossom with some qualities of sweetness, making it a completely timeless scent!! I love timeless sense, and scents that are uniquely different, and this one sounds unique and amazing! I have not tried anything from this line, but I would love to get my start in this line with this perfume since it sounds so amazing!! I live in the United States, and specifically, I live in Missouri, Hoping I win I would love to try this:)

  • There is definitely, I agree with other commenters, something biblical about muguet and lily, and the combination of sea notes just brings me to the Levant. I like the fragrance is zesty, multi-toned, and that is not cloying. I live in the EU.

  • Angelos, one of my favourite perfumers.I like every perfume of this house and I know that for Krinos will be the same. Flowery, salty, animalic…what else. I must have it!
    Gianmarco from Italy, EU.

  • This perfume sounds lovely! I have recently began appreciating floral perfumes, and especially the note of Lily of the Valley. Based on Ida’s review, this should be just my cup of tea. I have sadly not tried anything from this house before.

    I live in Sweden, EU.

  • Shibuichi2000 says:

    Ida’s mention regarding putting aside any notion of preconception about muguet when it comes to Krinos was what set my curiosity on .
    I usually tend to dismiss any muguet scent, but this sounds very interesting and different – I really wouldn’t know what to expect, but I was sold at the sea breeze.
    I’m in EU.

  • Lily of the valley was always the quintessential spring flower for me. I’m glad to see Angelos Balamis treating it with the reverence it deserves. The combination of the note with the tangy rhubarb and cassis and kicky pepper is inspired. I’m interested in the sea breeze accord which no doubt conjures images of Greece. I’m in the US.

  • thee_boy_wonder says:

    Reading Ida’s captivating review of Angelos Créations Olfactives Krinos was a sensory journey in itself. I was particularly struck by the intricate blend of notes, described with such vivid imagery that I could almost smell the fragrance through the screen. The juxtaposition of the lighthearted snappiness and brisk tempo with the delicate vulnerability of muguet sounds intriguing, promising a fragrance experience like no other.

    I appreciate Angelos Balamis’s dedication to creating unique perfumes inspired by molecules and naturals themselves, as shared in his insight into the creative process. It’s inspiring to see an artisan perfumer so deeply connected to their craft.

    I haven’t had the pleasure of trying anything from Angelos Créations Olfactives yet, but after reading this review, I’m eager to explore Krinos and immerse myself in its timeless and enchanting aroma.

    Pennsylvania US

  • I have always loved lily of the valley in nature, but have not yet encountered a fragrance reflecting it that I found truly wearable. Krinos sounds like it has broken the mold in bringing this note to perfume, and I would love to try it! Ida, I absolutely adore the manner in which you take us into the notes through so many sensations – taste, texture, images, and even movement! It brings a bit of joy and always makes me wish I could sample the inspiration. Thank you for this generous draw. I live in NH, USA.

  • FragranceIsMe says:

    Great review Ida…Very in-depth. Whenever I hear that a fragrance is “timeless” my attention is piqued. Rhubarb, raspberry, and LOTV are notes that both me and my wife look forward to experiencing in this creation.
    USA

  • “a return to happiness” made me smile. I’ve always been drawn to the airiness of lily of the valley. I like the idea of combining it with a sea breeze. Looking forward to learning more about this perfumer.

  • I’m fortunate enough to live by the ocean, and to see lilies growing wild, their delicate white petals soaking the marine air into their fragrance.

    Ida’s review completes the portrait of a lily of all lilies.

    I have not had the pleasure to try anything of Angelos Creations. Would absolutely love a flacon of Krinos to wear on my trips to the wild beaches of Melides.

    Writing from Portugal

  • I am in the US. I thought the compare and contrast between Lys Mediterranee and Krinos was very clever. As someone who has not tried Krinos but tried Lys Mediterranee, I got a very good idea of what to expect of Kronos.

  • Reading this review of Krinos, I read “one does well to toss aside any preconceived notions about muguet” and I realized I don’t know exactly what lily of the valley smells like. Still, green-soapy white florals sound like a wonderful combination with salty sea breeze, tangy fruit, and citrus-spicy pepper. The base on this also sounds distinct, with its gossamer musk and sandalwood. Ida also makes Krinos sound like a brisk counterpart to other lily perfumes.

    I’m in the USA. I haven’t tried any Angelos Creations Olfactives fragrances.

  • foreverscents says:

    I would love to try Krinos because the lily here sounds snappy and brisk. The sea breeze note must surely add a lightness to the composition. Yet that lightness can be contrasted with the animalic jasmine. Krinos sounds very intriguing. I haven’t tried anything from Angelos Creations Olfactives.
    I live in the USA.

  • Thank you for the wonderful review Ida. It’s super interesting to read about “floriography”/the language of flowers – new to me.

    I like the concept of this fragrance – a unisex, aquatic LOTV inspired by the study of muguet , a wonderful mix of elements. It’s really beautiful to see that this scent ( and a lot of others in the perfumer’s creation list) is inspired by the study of natural and ACs. I’m very intrigues by the creation of the sea breeze accord.

    I’m just imagining this scent to be the smell of wild beach lillies, being warmed up by the beachside sun, on a day that is not too hot, but rather warm and refreshing.

    Cheers from WI, USA