ÇaFleureBon Modern Masterpieces: Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee (Bertrand Duchaufour, 2011) + Vedic Draw

Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee review

 Trayee at sunset – courtesy of Neela Vermeire Creations

Western arts have been fascinated by India since the XVII century, and perfumery is no exception. Even someone like me who never visited the country, just closing his eyes listening to Bizet’s Les pêcheurs de perles (Pearl fishers) languorous romance Je crois entendre encore (I think I still hear) or surrendering to the overwhelming  delights of Guerlain Shalimar – the temple of love – one can experience such vivid places, times and atmospheres, from opulent palaces to the intimate delights of private chambers, from the silence of temples to crowded small markets. Inspiration is a conceptualization of reality as seen through the lenses of the viewer’s world, so some landscapes are truer to the original than others. The idea of India as seen by an Indian woman who studied and lived in Europe paired with the name of Master Perfumer Bertrand Duchaufour immediately hooked me back in 2011.

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Bizet’s Pearlfishers at Teatro del Maggio musicale of Florence in 2016 – credits Roberto Ricci

The  flacon was slightly different from the current one designed by Pierre Dinand, and I remember that I immediately wrote Neela Vermeire who was so nice to send me three vials of Trayee, Mohur and Bombay Bling. Call me sentimental, but smelling the debut trilogy was such a revelation, that I still have the three samples.

 

 Neela Vermeire with Bertrand Duchaufou

Neela Vermeire with Bertrand Duchaufour at Pitti Fragranze a few years ago – Credits Neela Vermeire Creations

The fragrance from the first trilogy that most impressed me and still whisks me away me to India is Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee; its colorful swirls of dried spices soaked in medicinal ointments of aromatic herbs and sweet-and-sour fruits macerations are poured over the most majestic woody bouquet that brings to life the finest oud perfume I ever smelled before.

Vintage Guerlain Shalimar ad by Lyse Darcy, 1939

Guerlain Shalimar ad by Lyse Darcy, 1939

Trayee has a high concentration of pure Mysore sandalwood oil, nearly 1% pure oud, and two different types of jasmine.”- Neela Vermeire

Trayee distilled ancient Ayurveda medicine and Vedic rituals in a contemporary perfume to redefine Indian-inspired French perfumery and oud overdosing (without falling into the usual  oud as a solo note) in 2011;  Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee is the Ambre Antique of woods, the Shalimar of Sandalwood and a Modern Masterpiece.

Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee 2011 review

 Rig Veda tells the story of Prajapati – the god who created the world

Trayee (meaning the triad in Sanskrit) takes its name from the first three sacred Veda Rig, Yajur e Sama which are the foundations of Hindi wisdom and spirituality. The opening of Trayee unfolds one of the most complex and energizing blast of sensations that surely required all the wisdom of Bertrand Duchaufour. An almost minty cardamom laced fizzy blue ginger and the orange-like pepperiness of elemi feel uplifting and immediately forecast the mineral coldness of incense from the base, like sunbeams breaking through the gloom of an ancient temple and revealing its colorful decorations. What really makes the top notes breathtaking though is the gold medicinal floralcy of saffron and the aromatic freshness of basil bringing a beautiful facet redolent of herbs and flowers macerations. Here’s where a ganja effect renders a slightly smoky, sweet dried herbs carpet, a very innovative take on the typical Lapsang Souchong tea theme made juicy and addictive by the mouthwatering tartness of blackcurrant (which Duchaufour later used in Aedes de Venustas Signature as well).

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 Baba with a Tilaka (religious mark) smoking a chillum of ritual gānjā

Heady and ripe strawberry-tinged jasmine sambac joined by unctuous Egyptian jasmine fully bloom in the heart but never get cloying backed by a huge load of milky pure Mysore sandalwood to die for. We know well how strokes of naturals can dress up a load of synthetics but here we have a big lesson: how strokes of synthetics can do miracles in a load of naturals. Just a pinch of floralozone (think a green, floral, crisp seabreeze) keeps a gauzy spiciness alive and makes the thick woody bouquet sparkle in thousand reflections.

Endless and ever-changing, the drydown of Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee is the most profound, intricate and mysterious woody trail I’ve ever smelled and it’s like a music where you get different motifs each time.

vintage Jean Patou L’Heure Attendue ad

Jean Patou L’Heure Attendue ad by M. Sue, 1949

Contemplative myrrh burns at a low smolder under the symbolic chypre cauldron of patchouli and oakmoss bridging it with French classics like Jean Patou’s L’Heure Attendue by Henri Almeras. Around this ceremonial fire dark, precious woods play an exotic, energizing bass line. Nutty, almost cashew-like vetiver and real oud Palao from Laos with its penetrating incensey and unforgettable scent, cheese like and floral, surround you in olive and copper hues unfolding in a primal call to Mother Nature.

Bertrand Duchaufour created Neela Vermeire Trayee

The Chipko activists, Indian tree huggers movement to protect trees and benefit from empathy with nature – credits Chipko archives

 Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee is a sense-awakening, meditative experience able to keep you grounded very much to present in the here and now, like the sense of peace you feel, nose to the bark, while hugging a tree.

Notes: Top: blue ginger from Madagascar, elemi oil, cinnamon bark, ganja effects, blackcurrant absolute, basil; Heart: Sambac jasmine absolute, Egyptian jasmine absolute, cardamom absolute, clove, saffron, sandalwood; Base: Javanese vetiver, Haitian vetiver, incense, Mysore sandalwood oil, patchouli, myrrh, vanilla, cedar, amber notes, oudh palao from Laos, oakmoss

This review is based on a personal bottle of Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee. My opinions are my own.

Ermano Picco, Editor and Perfume Expert

Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee review

Thanks to the generosity of Neela Vermeire, we have a 60 ml bottle of Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee for one lucky reader in the USA, EU and Canada. The draw is for registered readers only, so be sure to register if you have not done so. To be eligible please let us know your thoughts on Ermano’s essay on Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee  for our Modern Masterpiece Series and where you live.  Do you have a favorite Neela Vermeire perfume? This is Neela’s webstore  https://www.neelavermeire.com/.

Available also @luckyscent and other fine stockists.

Please like CaFleureBon Modern Masterpieces on Facebook and your comment will count twice. Please leave that in your comment. Draw closes May 11, 2020

DRAW EXTENDED

Editor’s Note: Neela Vermeire has a special place in our hearts. Ermano was among the first bloggers to write about Neela Vermeire Creations in early 2012, and CaFleureBon wrote about the collection in 2011. CaFleureBon also featured Neela Vermeire in the Creative Directors in Perfumery Series in 2013.  She also is a recipient of the Art and Olfaction Award for Ashoka in 2014.

This is our Privacy and Draw Rules Policy

We announce the winners only on our site and on our Facebook page, so like Çafleurebon and use our blog feed… or your dream prize will be just spilled perfume

Please follow us @cafleurebon and @magnifiscent on Instagram and don’t forget to follow @neelavermeirecreations on Instagram and @neelavermeire  and @fifthsensenyc on twitter

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96 comments

  • serephia says:

    Wood scents can be so grounding, and I love the mysterious interplay of the different woody and resinous notes this review evokes. USA

    I have liked the Facebook post.

  • This is a beautifully written piece about a creation that appears to be very evocative. The notes and accords appear to be of the highest quality. My favorite scent of the line so far is Rahele. I am in the USA.

  • I have never tried Neela Vermeire Creations fragrances, unfortunately. Ermano’s very high recommendation (“Trayee is the most profound, intricate and mysterious woody trail I’ve ever smelled and it’s like a music where you get different motifs each time”) and description makes it seem like a very spiritually and emotionally uplifting perfume, what with oud, sandalwood, jasmine, and patchouli notes. Would love to win this draw, if I am so lucky. I love oud and sandalwood, and I am delighted that someone has tried to capture Hindu spirituality and wisdom, and properties of ayurvedic therapeutic herbs (basil, clove, ginger, cardamom, saffron) in a fragrance. Thanks for the generous draw and the review. I have liked the referenced Facebook post too. Writing from USA.

  • Great article. This fragrance has a ton of notes, must be a real beauty. Until now i’ve had the chance to test only Bombay Bling and i enjoyed it a lot, an exotic fruity/floral beautiful juice. I would love to test it especially when i see in the base all kind of woods and 2 types of vetiver plus oakmoss. Thank you for the chance, i’m in the EU.

  • Trayee is a classical composition with a nod to lot of classics of past including Shalimar and L’Heure Attendue, latter being one of the best from Patou’s classic catalogue. My favorite from Neela Vermeire is Bombay Bling. USA

  • Reading Ermano’ s review it makes me think of Echart Tolle. “Trayee is a sense-awakening, meditative experience able to keep you grounded very much to present in the here and now”,
    The first time I heard of Neela Vermeire was at Jovoy Paris. I ended up taking a bottle of Bombay Bling. I’m going through my memories to find out if I remember Travee, but to no avail. Hence my entrance in this draw. I really would like to add the Shalimar of Sandalwood to my collection. “Inspiration is a conceptualization of reality as seen through the lenses of the viewer’s world”, well, I got my inspiration to write this upon reading the notes; stunning. How come I didn’t pick this up?! I hope my inspiration will realise me winning the draw and even more now I liked the CaFleureBon Modern Masterpiece Series on FB. Greetings from Brussels, Belgium.

  • brylaney says:

    The description of the dry down sounds awesome and special. I loved the entire thing though and would love to win. I have never tried anything by this house but have been curious for a long time. TN USA and I liked the facebook post.

  • I enjoyed the description of all the notes, especially the part about the ganja. I’m definitely interested. Thanks for the opportunity to sniff! Mich USA

  • Halsey77 says:

    Ermano’s essay on Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee was very informative and interesting. I never realized how much effort went into creating niche fragrances. I’ve never tried anything from this house before but I’d love to. Thanks for the great review and the great giveaway. Commenting from Kentucky USA.

  • A perfume that is worthy to be called the Shalimar of sandalwood must be really good. Would love to check out this mysterious, profound woody scent. Have not heard of Neela Veremite before, thanks for the introduction to the brand. Regards from the USA.

  • raymondchau says:

    Wow, I just literally found out about Neela Vermeire fragrance house a few days ago, on the journey of searching for a true mysore sandalwood fragrance. And here we are, a review on Trayee.
    I was more interested in Bombay Bling than the rest at first. But all of them seem incredible to my novice sense.
    Though, it is tough to sample the line here in Canada, since there’s no domestic stockist yet.
    I would be extremely stoked if I am the lucky one.

    I also have Like the CaFleureBon Modern Masterpieces Fabook page. I am in Toronto, Canada.

  • BostonScentGuy says:

    I love this scent and that whole first Neela Vermeire trio was an early foray into true niche. I love how Ermano references eastern and western perfumery and structures in this essay. While I love classical French perfumes that have referenced the east aesthetically in their imagery (Shalimar, Mitsouko, Liu), it’s always struck me how separate they were from western perfumery tradition. I like Vermeire’s line which, it feels to me, marries what feels like more authentic ingredients typical of eastern perfumery to western/classical structures. Mohur is my favorite! Visiting her site makes me realize there have been several released I’ve missed. Thanks for this generous draw–I’m in the US.

  • Camille Sheil says:

    This Fragrance is seemingly so complex that it could appear as though several fragrances were reviewed in this article! I am blown away by what I have read! From dried fruits, to citrus and fizzy blue ginger (I have no idea what that would smell like; very mysterious) and a minty cardamom! Going through Jasmines and all the way down to Lapsang Souchong notes (my favorite tea): a dry down that is like another movement in a song! I love it! Like a hidden accord!

    I very much appreciate this opportunity! I have never tried any of Neela Vermeire’s fragrances. They sound amazing. Truly built-to-last works of art!

    I live in New Hampshire USA!

  • I loved that the essay had as much care taken with it as the fragrance it was describing.
    The meticulous attention to detail was fascinating to read and really helped give me a fUll insight into this creation I’ve not tried before.

    My favourite from them is bombay bling.
    I’m from Ireland. Eu.

  • I never tried any of Neela perfumes. But only heard great things about them.
    This fragrance seems to be very complex with all these notes. B.Duchaufour
    is one of the best western perfumer to make exotic scents. His perfumes
    always make us travel.
    In the review, this fragrance is compared to all the other classics, this is
    good sign.

    I’m in the EU

  • NiceVULady says:

    Actually, I love Trayee and I think that , from my humble appreciation,Ermano’s essay really captured the feel and sensibility of that perfume. “Endless and ever-changing, the drydown of Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee is the most profound, intricate and mysterious woody trail I’ve ever smelled and it’s like a music where you get different motifs each time.” This quote says it all. Thank you so much for this essay and for this generous draw. I’m in the USA

  • Hashim Madani says:

    I’m a serious oud lover and have / had countless oud fragrances and oils. A statement from a connoisseur like Ermano to the tune of “the finest oud perfume I ever smelled before” immediately puts this fragrance in the top of my bottomless “must buy list”. Thanks for the wonderfully evocative review. VA, USA.

  • Ermano’s description sounds quite complex – and Betrand Duchaufour knows how to create a well-balanced fragrance with lots of contrasting elements (i.e. Timbuktu and Oud Shamash are amazing!). I haven’t tried one of the Neela Vermeire fragrances yet, but Trayee seems to be the most interesting for me.

    Best wishes from Germany

  • “ancient ayurveda medicine and vedic rituals in a contemporary perfume to redefine indian-inspired french perfumery” sounds fantastic. then i read the notes list! what a chance—thank you! from california

  • Laurentiu says:

    I very much like Jean Patou’s L’Heure Attendue – I know the vintage formulation – so I am sure I will like Neela’s creation.

    Thank you for the draw!

  • willyamsmallwood says:

    As a frequent consumer of cannabis, I am constantly impressed with the variety of scents it can produce. The addition in perfume makes for magical possibilities. As of yet my only encounter with a cannabis note in perfume has been Black Afgano. I have not had the chance to sample anything from Neela Vermeire, will have to track some down in the future. Portland, Oregon, USA. I have also liked the Facebook page.

  • I enjoyed reading this piece and how it explains the fusion of India and French perfumery. Also that it takes into its inspiration ancient medicine and rituals. The perfume itself sounds complex, interesting, and quite amazing. Certainly something new to me as I’m sure I’ve tried nothing like this. I havent had the good fortune to try any Neela Vermeire Creations yet but would like to. Commenting from CT USA. I have liked Cafleurebon Modern Masterpieces on facebook as well. Thanks for the generous draw.

  • ooooh wow i really love Neela Vermeire and I’ve always wanted to add the Trayee to my humble collection. What a great scent by this fantastic perfumer. This article does honor to the creation. Would love to win, living in the EU

  • Amaziz89 says:

    Base: Javanese vetiver, Haitian vetiver, incense, Mysore sandalwood oil, patchouli, myrrh, vanilla, cedar, amber notes, oudh palao from Laos, oakmoss. A wonderful description by Ermano I am intrigued and hypnotised by the base notes and the mystery, myths and history of India and perfumery. I have liked the cafleurebon modern masterpieces page on Facebook. Thanks from the United Kingdom

  • Ozzyaziz says:

    I am intrigued by the the oudh note in this composition as well all the plethora of ingredients. Intrigued that natural ingredients used in Vedic ceremonies reflects India and meditation and exoticism. A house that I need to explore further. Thanks a million from the United Kingdom

  • hayley_6 says:

    Hi I don’t know were to start on this beautiful review. I would love to try this and be transported to India, the spices, jasmine and the sandalwood just sounds gorgeous. I’ve never tried Neela Vermeire and would love to. I’m in the U.K. and I’ve liked modern masterpieces on Facebook. Thank you

  • it’s the fragrance that since its release I dream of trying I am a lover of sandalwood from mysore and I would really like to have the experience of the real thing; I would so much like to win Trayee or that neela sell separately 15 ml bottles. I like Ermano’s last sentence “the sense of peace you feel, nose to the bark, while hugging a tree” is exactly what I want! I live in France, UE.

  • Trinity33 says:

    What an interesting article on the background and creation of this fragrance. I’ve sampled Neela Vermeire Trayee before and I love the complex yet subtle woodiness. The patchouli/oak moss combination make it very comforting and grounding. I’m in MD, USA

  • doveskylark says:

    I love Bombay Bling, so I know they sensory journey Neela Vermeire’s fragrances take the wearer on. I love Ermano’s image of hugging a tree, nose to the bark–there is a comfort and a certain fragrance that comes with that embrace. I love all the notes featured in Trayee, especially the vetiver and sandalwood.
    I live in the USA. I have liked Modern Masterpieces on Facebook.

  • marcopietro says:

    Great review! Ermano describes well the complexity of a perfume that evokes the close link between the deep Indian spirituality and the natural world.
    The description of the drydown is irresistible for a lover of woody notes like me.
    Into Neela creations I have only tried Bombay Bling and I have enjoyed it.
    I live in EU.
    Thanks!

  • patrick_348 says:

    I was so impressed with how Ermano kept all the notes separate in his discussion of the fragrance. Putting all of those notes together could have resulted in a hot mess, but Ermano’s description explained the interactions in a way that makes me want to smell the result. I haven’t tried a Neela Vermeire fragrance, but this makes me want to. I am in the US, in North Carolina.

  • Reading Ermano’s essay was already grounding and therapeutical. The woody, herbal and balsamic notes are a delight for the senses, in a mature and fulfilling, rather than a fleeting and bombastic way. Like an inner smile rather than one displaying all of one’s teeth. The myrrh and smoky dimension adds to that nearly mystical effect of an ancient ritual of human – nature bonding. The illustrations Ermano picked for this article contribute to that: warm tones of yellow and orange, solar colors of comfort and personal strength, as well as blues, color of mysticism and contemplation. I would love to try this beauty, from the EU, and it would be my first Neela experience. I also liked the Modern mysticism FB page. Thanks for the double chance.

  • Modern masterpieces* lol. That’s what happens when one looks for a word and finally finds it. They won’t leave it anymore

  • Trayee is just fabulous. It’s so complex, and that real sandalwood is just dreamy. I can still smell it on the skin after a shower. Such a comforting scent.
    I enjoyed Ermano’s review, especially the comparison with L’Heure Attendue. Not something I would have thought of!
    Neela is one of the kindest and most generous souls ever. Thank you for the giveaway. I live in EU.

  • Trayee is one of my already faves from this house. I enjoyed reading another person’s experience. US

  • Bryant Worley says:

    Errands was quite eloquent in his breakdown of Trayee. His descriptiveness and vision-inducing verbage was excellent. Basically, he had me at: “its colorful swirls of dried spices soaked in medicinal ointments of aromatic herbs and sweet-and-sour fruits macerations are poured over the most majestic woody bouquet that brings to life the finest oud perfume I ever smelled before.” Every description after that was a dollop/stroke of icing. I have not had the pleasure of trying any Neela Vermeire fragrances. I live in Waldorf, MD, USA.

  • This is such a lovely detailed review for what seems like a wonderfully detailed fragrance!

    I have previously sampled Bombay Bling and found it absolutely breathtaking.

    I love the description here of the opening top notes with basil, cardamom, mint and fizzy ginger.

    I’m also a convert to oud after initially getting overwhelmed working in the UAE for a while with the omnipresent one-note oud in malls made me swear I hated it -but Jorum Studio Nectary made me realize how beautiful it could be in a complex and balanced fragrance!

    I would love to try this Neela Vermeire as cardamom, ginger, saffron, jasmine, sandalwood and oud are all notes that I love! In Canada. Thank you for the review!

  • herman2625 says:

    After I read the essay! I am so interesting in Neela Vermeire perfume~ Whcih I have not tried anything yet~ so I really want to win a bottle pls ^^

    I live in USA!

  • This review is allowing me to feel I travelled to an Indian Temple.”the most complex and energizing blast of sensations” with the rich, smoky, woody understones. And I adore cardamom. USA

  • It is beautiful how Trayee evokes Hindu religious aspects (the triad of Veda Rig, Yajur and Sama) in parallel to the effects of the notes. Trayee’s notes are a feast! My favourite Neela Vermeire perfume is Ashoka. I live in France, EU.

  • “smoky, sweet dried herbs carpet” wonderful! The notes for this fragrance are quite long – I am always impressed and amazed at how perfumers are able to take oud and conjure it in so many different ways. Neela’s bombay bling is wonderful. Thank you for the giveaway. From Canada!

  • I adore Trayee. Have tried several Neela Vermeire fragrances and liked every single one so far. They are gorgeous. This is such a lovely brand. I agree with this line: “Endless and ever-changing, the drydown of Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee is the most profound, intricate and mysterious woody trail I’ve ever smelled and it’s like a music where you get different motifs each time”. Wonderful. Thank you Neela Vermeire and Cafleurebon for this perfect giveaway. I live in EU.

  • Margarita K says:

    I have samples from several of Neela’s fragrances and Trayee is my favorite (along with Pichola). The notes I get the most are the spices, cardamom and ginger, but the woody base makes them quite unique, as well as that gauzy, reflective vail Ermano describes so well. I agree with him, this is truly a modern masterpiece. I’d be ecstatic to win a bottle.
    I live in US.

  • frixyminnow says:

    Wow what a flattering review. As a newbie to perfumery, I find it impressive when a perfume moves even the most seasoned nose. I spent a few months in India and the incense and spices there were unlike any other I had smelled before or since. Also makes me wonder why we are so sensorily restrained in my country. Perhaps the restraint leaves our noses more sensitive, though. I would love to smell this delicious oud and sandalwood as you describe. I also liked the CaFleurBon page on FB. I live in Germany.

  • This article had me hooked right from the start.I couldn’t believe the list of ingredients. Halfway down the article I thought I was done only to realize the Myrrh, Patchouli and Oakmoss were about to kick in! This truly is the Essence of India.

    I’m overwhelmed by the quality of ingredients and very eager to try it out and share it with my friends.

    I live in the UK.

  • This article had me hooked right from the start.I couldn’t believe the list of ingredients. Halfway down the article I thought I was done only to realize the Myrrh, Patchouli and Oakmoss were about to kick in! This truly is the Essence of India.

    I’m overwhelmed by the quality of ingredients and very eager to try it out and share it with my friends.

    I have liked the article on Facebook & I live in the UK.

  • Jake Dauod says:

    This fragrance sounds amazing!!! I love this essay and how it guides me through the fragrance. The Oud, blackcurrent, and spices sound sooooo good. I love woody spicy fragrances and this sounds like a masterpiece. I really need to get my nose on this fragrance asap. Warm regards from Illinois, USA.

  • Naomi Sawyer says:

    Neela Vermeire is totally new to me! But Lapsang souchong and jasmine? I have to try this….

    – New Hampshire

  • Oud always makes me hesitate, but I have only ever heard wonderful praise for Trayee. I really enjoyed this essay and the Modern Masterpieces series in general. Its so nice to read rave reviews of something that is still available. I’m in the USA.

  • Outstanding essay and description if a creation grounding with a woody resinous exotic fragrance. I am very interested. Thanks for the excellent draw. I live in CA, USA.

  • Great read. It was a very in-depth and beautifully written piece. I have unfortunately never tried any fragrances from Neela, but would love to eventually! I’m in Canada and thanks for the draw.

  • Daphnelemon says:

    You had me interested by the time you compared it to “medicinal ointments” 😉 Aside from my love of strong and odd herb scents, I appreciate that you took the time to describe the order and effect of some of these notes like the ganja and oud. I’ve seen this listed on luckyscent and considered sampling, but was hesitating since not many reviews captured it’s complexity so well. Thank you!

  • IrinaSTA says:

    Beautiful article on Trayee. I first smelled it at Profumeria Mariangela in Spoleto, Italy (the most incredible perfume shop and an unexpected surprise on my holiday!). Along with Bombay Bling and Mohur, it’s been on my mind ever since. I am in the UK.

  • I love Trayee! I also love Mohur. It’s wonderful how Ermano describes this beautiful scent as “Trayee is a sense-awakening, meditative experience able to keep you grounded very much to present in the here and now, like the sense of peace you feel, nose to the bark, while hugging a tree.” Great words. USA

  • Thank you Ermano for this beautiful review!! This perfume sounds very great, opulent – minty cardamom and fizzy blue ginger, than freshness of herbs, medical saffron and in the end- music of woods…WOW.
    Unfortunately, I haven’t not tested Neela’s perfumes.
    US

  • wallygator88 says:

    Thank you for the lovely piece Ermano. I’ve heard a bit about Neela Vermeire and it was really great to read your article on her interpretation of the Vedic period of India’s history. There are lot of spices and elements of ritual present in the notes of this perfume.

    The bottles are also interesting because they remind me of the vintage Guerlain bottles.

    I’ve never had a chance to smell these perfumes before.

    I have liked the FB page as mentioned.

    Regards from WI, USA

  • Fantabulous review!
    This was my favorite part.
    ānjā

    Heady and ripe strawberry-tinged jasmine sambac joined by unctuous Egyptian jasmine fully bloom in the heart but never get cloying backed by a huge load of milky pure Mysore sandalwood to die for. We know well how strokes of naturals can dress up a load of synthetics but here we have a big lesson: how strokes of synthetics can do miracles in a load of naturals. Just a pinch of floralozone (think a green, floral, crisp seabreeze) keeps a gauzy spiciness alive and makes the thick woody bouquet sparkle in thousand reflections.
    I adore ALL of Neela’s creations but Mohur Extrait has a special place in my heart ❤️
    I live in the USA, thanks for the very generous giveaway.

  • Ermano, thank you for the wonderful review! Thank you to Neela Vermeire and Bertrand Duchaufour for this absolute stunner of a fragrance. Thank you to Neela Vermeire Creations for the generosity of the draw.

    I have tried both Trayee and Bombay Bling and adore both. Ermano did a phenomenal job describing this scent and I love the classics he chose to parallel this to. He really brought this alive in words, beautifully.

    I’m in the USA.

  • I liked the idea of how natural and synthetic elements can interact and enhance each other. I am also curious about the use of two different kinds of jasmine. I live in the USA.

  • Natalia306 says:

    Today 5/6/20, I’m reading Ermano’s article looking outside, where is a beautiful full moon shining in reflection of the river and creating very special atmosphere! Ermano’s said”:Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee is a sense-awakening, meditative experience able to keep you grounded very much to present in the here and now, like the sense of peace you feel, nose to the bark, while hugging a tree.” Thank you, that exactly how I feel right now, this perfume and Ermano’s review help me tonight to feel special.
    Your subscriber here, on Instagram and your Facebook
    US, Florida

  • astro_girl says:

    Hi, I live in the D.C. area (U.S.) and have not tried Neelas perfumes. Based on this article I would probably try Trayee first. My very best friend from India introduced me to Mysore many years ago, and I love it. I liked the Facebook page for a second chance. Thank you!

  • wagnerflo says:

    Never heard of Neela Vermeire until now, so I couldn’t have a favorite. But from the sound of the lovely description this one could be it.

    I love the smell of sandalwood, but most probably have only smelled synthetics as yet. That combined with oud and flowers seems like a dream come true. So please enter me in the draw. I’m from Germany, EU.

    Also: I can’t like your Facebook page. There’s no button for it. I can only Follow it, which is what I’ve done. Is that what you intended us to do?

  • QuentinMathieu says:

    This review is brilliant, as usual, and the perfume sounds absolutely amazing. I’ve never tried anything from Neela Vermeire, so, I would be delighted to win this giveaway. The notes are very interesting and there many of them that I really enjoy. Cardamom is my absolute favourite spice and it always reminds me of India. I adore blue ginger (I have vetiver by MdO). Lapsang Souchong just waw!Finally Mysore Sandalwood! Oud from Laos! That must be heaven! I’m excited to sample this!
    From Belgium (EU)

  • Very interesting review. I especially liked description of Shalimar.
    “Trayee distilled ancient Ayurveda medicine and Vedic rituals..”- sounds very mysterious! I had Neela Mohur sample, but don’t remember it completely.
    US

  • Wow, this sounds so intriguing. I have smelled some of this notes, however all of them combined must be something. Thank you for describing it so well that I could almost smell it. Cheers from Romania.

  • Poetry, the description and the perfume– In these times of only armchair travel, I would love to be transported by Trayee! One of the pleasures and comforts during the isolation of social distancing, working remotely, and deep concern about us all, has involved the morning perfume choice. I have like the the site on FB, live in Massachusetts, and would be beyond grateful if I were to win a bottle of Trayee!! Thanks you.

  • Bubeto_GG says:

    Fragrance stories like this one I really enjoy. I like Neela Vermeire is honoring her background with Trayee , and the fact the fragrance is not linear.
    Mystery oriental fragrance I guess.
    Never smelled anything from Neela Vermeire , but saw a few of Sebastian reviews on YouTube , and also i know the brand is loved by most contributors on Cafleurebon , especially Michelyn .
    Thank you.
    I used to travel back and forth between USA and Scotland, and I hope soon I’ll be able to again.
    For now I’m in Virginia

  • Such an amazing review!! Thank you, Ermano !
    This perfume has so rich pyramid and Ermano described its every steps. Sandalwood with real oud, patchouli, 2 types of vetiver and jasmine – sounds very beautiful.
    Unfortunately, there are no any Neela Vermeire perfumes in my city, but I’ve red so many wonderful reviews about her perfumes.
    USA. DE

  • mleenstra says:

    Neela vermeire perfumes have only recently come on my radar (how’s that possible!). I think Ermano describes the perfume beautifully and also places it well within its historical and cultural background. I’m currently in love with Ashoka, but would love to try more.
    Marit UK

  • helenlam says:

    This one sounds great with the spices, woods, and jasmine. Even with the review, this one sounds so complex and still yet very difficult to envision. I’ve never tried anything from Neela Vermeire. I live in the USA. Thanks for the giveaway.

  • “The idea of India as seen by an Indian woman who studied and lived in Europe paired with the name of Master Perfumer Bertrand Duchaufour” did not immediately hook me, because I have yet to experience the any Neela Vermeire creations. But it did pique my interest and made me ponder a few questions. Apart from Neela, I was ignorant of any Indian brands or perfumers. I did a quick google search and found there are about a dozen. This is very surprising since the many of the raw material used come from this region and perfumery has been a part of Indian civilization for thousands of years. There are probably more, but I do not know about them. Also, of the dozen or so only two I found have been heavily reviewed. Why? And Neela Vermeire is the only fragrance house which has been nominated and won awards. Please correct if I am wrong. I have thoughts about why there is a lack of non-western perfumers featured or highlight, but I save it for a future article I may write. Nevertheless, I love to experience the Lapsang Souchong note. I love this smoky tea. I appreciated Ermano’s piece for giving me some things to think about. I will have to get myself a discovering kit. Here is in the US.

  • “The Shalimar of Sandalwood” sounds gorgeous. I’m a fan of medicinal, aromatic scents, so those aspects of this woody fragrance really appeal to me. I’d love to try this. I’m in the US.

  • redwheelbarrow says:

    Oh my goodness this sounds divine! I’ve never experienced this house but now I feel I must. I love all things sandalwood and jasmine and this sounds so beautiful! I’m also a big fan of Shalimar so describing this as the Shaliamr of sandalwood sounds amazing! Thank you for this review and draw. I’m in the US.

  • I’m happy to see Trayee entering Modern Masterpieces hall of fame. Great choice! I remember smelling the first three Neela Vermeire’s fragrances and it was one of my biggest fragrant awakenings. So beautiful, so gentle. Almost mystical. Probably Mohur was the one that left me speechless but now I love all of them. For me Trayee has the power of transporting to a distant mystical, peaceful, better world. It is as Ermano puts it “a sense-awakening, meditative experience”. I already have Mohur and Bombay Bling. Trayee still missing but I hope that thanks to Cafleurebon I will be able to complete my triad. Thanks to Neela and Bertrand for creating such treasures. I live in the EU.

  • Ermano struck a balance in this essay that I uncommon in fragrance journalism: he not only explores what makes this scent unique and memorable by taking us through the olfactory experience – he supplements this story by highlighting the chemical innovations that make this sensory journey possible. The actual manual creation of fragrances through the delicate balancing of natural and synthetic compounds is not as often discussed, and in this case, the inclusion of these details helps me appreciate this singular scent. I am looking forward to trying this modern masterpiece whenever I can! I live in the USA, and have liked the “CaFleureBon Modern Masterpieces” Facebook page.

  • LinePlaneVolume says:

    I haven’t had the opportunity to try a Neela Vermeir fragrance yet. How can something be sense-awakening and meditative all at once? I must find out. 🙂

    Writing from Pacific Northwest, USA. Take care and be well, everyone.

  • I thought the essay was well written and thought provoking. I love how she describes the drydown of Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee as the most profound, intricate and mysterious woody trail.
    My favorite is PICHOLA.
    I live in USA.

  • Michael Prince says:

    Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee is a modern masterpiece. This distinguished fragrance is the winner of several accolades and awards. This sounds like a dense and complex fragrance that was made as a dedication to nature and its many aromatic, green, and woody elements. Ermano’s essay on Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee is very detailed and perfectly describes the many facets of this fragrance. I am from Ohio, USA. Thank you for the giveaway.

  • Michael Prince says:

    Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee is a modern masterpiece. This distinguished fragrance is the winner of several accolades and awards. This sounds like a dense and complex fragrance that was made as a dedication to nature and its many aromatic, green, and woody elements. Ermano’s essay on Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee is very detailed and perfectly describes the many facets of this fragrance. I don’t have a favorite Neela Vermeire fragrance because I haven’t tried anything from this house. I liked the facebook page. I am from Ohio, USA. Thank you for the giveaway.

  • I’ve never heard of this but it sounds really interesting. I’m in Michigan.

  • Trayee is my favourite of the Neela Vermeire fragrances. I could not put my experience with Trayee into words like Ermano did so well. I’m in the EU.

  • aurora_ru says:

    I am really inspired by the notes: “An almost minty cardamom laced fizzy blue ginger and the orange-like pepperiness of elemi feel uplifting and immediately forecast the mineral coldness of incense from the base, (..) gold medicinal floralcy of saffron and the aromatic freshness of basil”, I wanna get that ganja effect!
    My favorite Neele Vermeire fragrance is Rahele, but they all are very interesting and different, Bertrand did a good job!
    Thank you for you generousity, I live in the EU.

  • Paeonnia says:

    I’d love to join Ermano at the mysteriuousp path into the woods … Beautiful writing!
    I haven’t tried Neela Vemeire perfumes yet.
    I’m from Slovenia, EU
    i liked the facebook post as well.

  • There were a few things that sparked my curiosity.
    The first would be the ” huge load of milky pure Mysore sandalwood” – this sounds intirgueing for a sandalwood lover.
    Also interesting Ermano’s underlining the interchangeable role of synthetic/natural in a fragrance, specifically, this one.
    Never tried Neela’s perfumes.
    I live in Europe.

  • A very beautiful written modern masterpiece about a wonderful perfumer. Bombay bling and mohur are in my collection so I would love to own Trayee with its woody trail and OUD. I like the references to it being the Shalimar of sandalwood
    USA
    Where can I buy besides Luckyscent here

  • WaltherP99 says:

    I was able to sample Mohur Extrait at Esxence 2018 , and i do like it a lot , the mango one called Bombay Bling is really good too. Trayee I have not smelled. Esxence is surreal experience for every fragrance lover, but it is overwhelming, you just can’t smell everything , it’s not possible. I was so upset in was cancelled because of the ….. It’s scheduled for 2021 , so let’s hope it will happen.
    If Trayee is on pair with Mohur Extrait , and Bombay Bling I’m expecting fireworks.
    Like I said both Mohur Extrait and Bombay Bling are great, I think I slightly prefer Bombay Bling.
    Thanks a lot
    Stuck in USA

  • petergigov says:

    Such a sophisticated fragrance Trayee is with its cardamom , fizzy ginger , incense from the base and blackcurrant notes.
    Definitely special occasions fragrance I would wear with a suit only.
    Neela Vermeire is completely new to me.
    Ermano thanks for the review.
    Exsiting giveaway, USA
    Regards

  • wildevoodoo says:

    This fragrance sounds absolutely stunning, managing to take such a high concentration of pure oud oil without being an oud soliflore and while also capturing such intense aromas of basil, cardamom, and saffron (which number among my favorite notes!) I absolutely believe it is the ‘Shalimar of sandalwood’ and would cherish a bottle if I were to win. I have never tried a Neela Vermeire creation before! I am in the US 🙂

  • Natural smelling Oriental fragrance, heavy on the cardamom , resins and smoke is what I think of right now.
    I have not tried Neela Vermeire fragrances.
    Thank you
    USA

  • Uncle1979 says:

    After all the positive attention, I decided to buy Neela Vermeire discovery set from Luckyscent. 5 Loves, and one Not for me. The only one I would not wear is Pichola.
    Speaking about Trayee, it is really milky fragrances that smells really similar to Ras Malai , traditional Indian dessert. Lactonic without a doubt, yet spicy and calming. As a long time Pastry Chef, I’m absolutely sure Neela Vermeire told Bertrand Duchaufour to create a fragrance that would smell like Ras Malai.
    I’m not sure what’s my favorite Neela Vermeire Bombay Bling, Mohur Extrait or Trayee.
    One important note to all who consider getting Neela Vermeire discovery set , you will receive six , and not eight samples Rahele, Pichola, Ashoka, Bombay Bling,Mohur and Trayee . Mohur Extrait and Niral samples are NOT included in the discovery set, and you will have to pay extra if you want to smell the two. I know it was my fault not to look at the description of the discovery set , I also paid $4 extra for the shipping ot the two .
    Appreciate the review, and the giveaway campaign
    USA

  • m.r.everything says:

    I have yet to try a Neela Vermeire creation, but boy let me tell you, she is at the top of my list… I have planned to blind buy one of her magical creations for quite some time and that will still happen in the not so distant future! Trayee is the one I have been looking at, mainly, to purchase. This sounds like such a stunning fragrance…. I truly can not wait to dive into Neela’s brand. Besides Sarah McCartney (and before her perfume ventures really), Bertrand Duchaufour was my favorite perfumer ever… Sarah has since taken that place, but Mr. Duchaufour is still right up there! I love his creations hence being another main reason I wanted to try Neela’s line! Ermano did an impeccable job translating the scent of Trayee into words here for us! He has confirmed what I already thought would be my first purchase from the brand! “An almost minty cardamom laced fizzy blue ginger and the orange-like pepperiness of elemi feel uplifting and immediately forecast the mineral coldness of incense from the base, like sunbeams breaking through the gloom of an ancient temple and revealing its colorful decorations.” This beautiful line here set Trayee over the top for me… this makes me want it that much more! Thank you Ermano for your wonderful take on Trayee and for sharing your thoughts with us! I truly enjoyed the read and am looking forward to the next one! Thank you so much Neela for your generosity and for this amazing opportunity! This is a blessing and a treat! Thank you Michelyn for everything you do for us and for continuing to bring us great content! It is appreciated more than you know! I hope all of you and your families are staying safe during these challenging times! I am definitely liking CaFleureBon’s Modern Masterpieces on FB…. wouldn’t want to miss out on any great content there! Thank you all again! Sending love and well wishes from Delaware, US. Good luck to all and stay safe friends!

  • Reading Ermano take on Trayee was captivating . I’ve heard the name dozens of times, but never had a chance to smell Neela Vermeire fragrances.
    Spicy balsamic orientals are hard to resist.
    Don’t have a Facebook page, but subscribed to @cafleurebon on Instagram.
    Thank you for the draw. USA

  • IvanVelikov says:

    Top quality ingredients fragrance, created by one of the best perfumers out there Bertrand Duchaufour . Spicy and balsamic fragrances and well suited for all seasons, even for the summer if you’re gentle with the sprayer.
    I’m not familiar with Neela Vermeire Creations, not yet at least.
    I’m in US

  • ElenaChiss says:

    I am a little bit late to the party, but better later than never. I would love to try some of Neela’s creations. Until now I’ve only read about them, them not being available where I live to go out and try some. I hope that day will come soon as I am sure I would love them.
    Thank you!