DSH Perfumes x ÇaFleureBon The Gold Queen (Dawn Spencer Hurwitz) 2025 + A Gilded Giveaway

The Gold Queen CafleureBon X DSH Perfumes

DSH Perfumes x ÇaFleureBon The Gold Queen

“It is with an ebullient heart that I announce the latest Queen in honor of ÇaFleureBon’s15th anniversary. This is my fifth invitation to collaborate with Editor-In-Chief, Michelyn Camen to create a uniquely envisioned Queen. Gold Queen is unlike any of my previous ‘Queen Collaborations’ with Michelyn“. -Dawn Spencer Hurwitz of DSH Perfumes

Dawn Spencer-Hurwitz and Michelyn Camen

 Dawn Spencer-Hurwitz and Michelyn Camen (gilded and apped)

 ÇaFleureBon’s recent 15th anniversary was a milestone achievement to be commemorated in style, as is EIC Michelyn Camen’s customary wont. Many Queen collaborations have seen the light of day. This year the queen which she and artisanal perfumer Dawn Spencer Hurwitz sought would be radiant, unique, and speak to the concept of gold and the multiple facets available for exploration amidst the olfactory palette. Fruit, flower, resin, wood, and spice clamored for inclusion – and so was breathed into being.

Klimt Head of Hofernes

Klimt Judith and the Head of Holofernes, 1901 wiki commons

Synesthesia being what it is for a visual artist (and here I include Michelyn as well as Dawn; I have seen some of our EIC’s paintings, and they are marvelous, delicate, and evocative), one specific image kept cropping up: Gustav Klimt’s Judith and the Head of Holofernes (aka Judith I), painted in 1901 and currently on display at the Österreichische Galerie Belvedere in Vienna. The irresistible pull of Judith of Bethalia’s appeal could not be stronger – a courageous widow who first seduced and then beheaded the invading Assyrian general Holofernes, thus saving her city and its populace. Both Dawn and Michelyn agreed immediately upon this brave woman whom Dawn refers to as “beautiful, luscious, and powerful”: she was the perfect embodiment for their fragrant collaboration. One glimpse of the painting reveals all. DSH Perfumes x ÇaFleureBon The Gold Queen needed to reflect modern perfumery wed to ancient sensibilities, which have been expressed utilizing botanical materials and exquisite, inventive accords created by the perfumer.

“Gold—what can it not do, and undo?” – William Shakespeare

Opoponax Resins courtesy of the perfumer

In DSH Perfumes x ÇaFleureBon The Gold Queen, the aromatic ancient world is represented by Old Testament references to precious sweet myrrh (opoponax), sandalwood, and saffron – each of them contributory fragrant components. So, too are dried grapes (not specifically referred to as golden); when it comes to apples, an evocation of golden ones is more in keeping with myth and culture – at times, another appellation for argan fruit, possibly oranges, quinces and tomatoes (i.e., pomodoro). To my nose, the apples are rich, honeyed fruit which blossom in the presence of a sultry peach note, warm tones of neroli and orange blossom, and the mordant brilliance of bergamot. The hot metal of gold leaf finds itself mirrored in what Dawn describes as a gilded leather accord, a form of olfactory counterpoint to the grounding presence of sandalwood and Atlas cedar.

 The jus of Gold Queen macerating via Dawn

Nothing is so sweet as the heirloom varieties of yellow rose – intensely fragrant and tinged with lemon, fruity in themselves – partnered with the richly animalic self-possession of grandiflorum jasmine. Voluptuous as DSH Perfumes x ÇaFleureBon The Gold Queen is, she retains a regal element of undeniable dignity which further fleshes out the character of our Old Testament heroine.  A queen worthy of claiming her rightful place amongst the growing pantheon of ÇaFleureBon queens.

Notes: sultana (golden raisin) accord, golden apple, yellow peach, bergamot, gold leaf (metallic) accord, saffron, yellow roses, neroli, orange blossom absolute, grandiflorum jasmine, gilded leather accord, sandalwood, opoponax, Atlas cedar, musk

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

~ Ida Meister, Deputy and Natural Perfumery Editor

 

DSH Perfumes The Gold Queen

 

Thanks to the generosity of Dawn Spencer Hurwitz of DSH Perfumes, we have one 30 ml EDP of The Gold Queen for one registered reader in the USA. To be eligible, please leave a comment regarding what sparked your interest about Dawn Spencer Hurwitz’s and Michelyn Camen’s collaboration and in Ida’s review, and where you live.

DSH Perfumes X ÇaFleureBon The Gold Queen is sold exclusively at DSH Perfumes HERE and at Indigo Perfumery HERE

2024 DSH Perfumes X ÇaFleureBon Green Queen (100 percent botanical) is sold exclusively at DSH Perfumes HERE and at Indigo Perfumery HERE

 2023 DSH Perfumes X ÇaFleureBon Disco Queen

2022 DSH Perfumes X ÇaFleureBon Warrior Queen Available to purchase  at DSH Perfumes

2021 DSH Perfumes X CaFleureBon Drama Queen

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46 comments

  • Casey says:

    This scent profile and inspiration sound amazing! I love the blending of perfume and art, and I’m always looking out for fragrances with Opoponax!

  • scentventurous says:

    I’m so excited to get my nose on this perfume! The inspiration and notes sound incredible.

  • itsme89 says:

    This sounds absolutely intriguing! The concept of “The Gold Queen” and the inspiration behind it, linking regal elegance with the intensity of gold, is captivating. Dawn Spencer Hurwitz consistently crafts such thoughtful and layered fragrances, so I have high expectations for this 2025 release. The combination of notes mentioned – saffron, honey, amber, woods – hints at a rich, warm, and luxurious scent profile that I’m eager to experience. Thank you for sharing this early glimpse and the exciting giveaway opportunity! From US

  • Ellen says:

    Klimt’s use of gold in his paintings is echoed in DSH’s fragrance. It surrounds everything. Lovely review

  • Bloomfields says:

    Oh, my goodness, a new DSH Perfumes creation! The name “The Gold Queen” alone conjures such a powerful and luxurious image. Knowing Dawn’s artistry, I’m picturing something deeply complex and evocative. The described note profile – the spice of saffron, the sweetness of honey, the warmth of amber, and the grounding of woods – is already making my senses tingle with anticipation. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for its 2025 release and crossing my fingers for that gilded giveaway! From US

  • Celala says:

    The very essence of “The Gold Queen,” a collaborative masterpiece from DSH Perfumes and Cafleurebon, paints a breathtaking olfactory portrait. Dawn Spencer Hurwitz’s artistry, combined with this inspired theme, promises a fragrance of unparalleled beauty and depth. Imagining the radiant shimmer of saffron intertwining with the golden sweetness of honey, all grounded in the rich embrace of amber and noble woods, evokes a sensory experience of true majesty. This glimpse into the 2025 release has ignited a profound anticipation – to encounter a scent that embodies such regal splendor would be a genuine privilege. And that gilded giveaway? A truly enchanting prospect! From US

  • Lhove31 says:

    The Gold Queen” whispers of regal beauty. Saffron and honeyed warmth, grounded in rich woods. A stunning collaboration I eagerly await. And that giveaway? Divine! From US

  • Mchiles30 says:

    Intrigued by “The Gold Queen”! Dawn Spencer Hurwitz’s touch always brings such artistry to scent. The notes described sound like a luxurious, captivating blend. Looking forward to learning more about this 2025 release and that wonderful giveaway. From US

  • AGK11 says:

    I own only one bottle of DSH and that’s ambergris 10. Possible the most underrated base fragrance for layering. So to see this 100% botanical fragrance with all its notes is definitely intriguing.

  • Cel35 says:

    This article about the upcoming DSH Perfumes collaboration with Cafleurebon for “The Gold Queen” sounds quite interesting. The idea of a fragrance inspired by regal themes and the color gold is definitely unique. I appreciate them giving us some insight into the potential scent profile, with notes like saffron, honey, amber, and woods being mentioned. It gives a good starting point for imagining what the final product might smell like. It will be something to keep an eye out for closer to its 2025 release to see the full details and reviews. The inclusion of a giveaway is a nice way to generate excitement for the new perfume. From US

  • Ramses Perez says:

    Little did I know there were other collaborations already, Michelyn is a working woman! A very interesting array of notes but according to Ida, they all come together to form the most beautiful and golden of scents. Jasmine can be a tough note to work with and many people dislike the smell but in this one, the surrounding notes really do play to the strength of the jasmine forming a nostalgic fragrance to remind us of better days. My interest is peaking to sample this one. I’m located in the USA.

  • opalbear says:

    I love a gold perfume!! I think of Amouage Gold and Ysatis and Amarige and big shoulder padded 80s floral basalmic bold beauties!!! I loooove that style. This sounds incredible and I adore Dawn’s work. I can’t wait to try this. A big wish that I win this time! Thank you for the generous giveaway. I am located in the U.S.

  • teatreesoil says:

    the combination of so many disparate notes, united by their association with “gold” color, is interesting… all of them in isolation sound appealing, and i’m curious how dawn spencer hurwitz chose to blend these altogether. thanks ida for guiding my mind into what to expect (honeyed fruits + peach + bergamot against a leather and cedarwood base… yum!)
    the epononymous “gold queen” of judith of bethalia is a timeless icon of willpower and fortitude… definitely excited for this collaboration!

    located in VA, US

  • mdellaroc says:

    DSH is a master for sure. And I know she can take inspiration and run with it to new heights. I can’t imagine the depth she created with such a vision. This will surely be golden. In maryland.

  • Sandra Bishop says:

    Love the visual I get from the description of the notes something exotic and timeless. Jasmin and Rose being some of my favorite flowers this is definitely on my radar❤️

  • Baseeta says:

    I love all the gold and rich tones used by Klimt, and am always searching for a fragrance that mirrors the richness of his painting. The sultana, yellow peach, and saffron among all the other notes sound like this one will be a true representation of his art and I’m so excited to be given this opportunity to experience this. Thanks so much! I’m in the US.

  • sherin thomas says:

    Lovely profile of the fragrance. Dawn Spencer Hurwitz consistently crafts such thoughtful and layered fragrances, so I have high expectations for this 2025 release. From PA,USA

  • mmerline says:

    I wasn’t familiar with Klimt’s Judith I—really strong imagery to inspire a fragrance. Dawn always manages to include a surprising aspect in her fragrances, and the “gilded leather accord” is a terrific example, enhancing the theme and texturing the heavy resins and sweet fruit. Really cool fragrance for ÇaFleureBon’s 15th.

    I’m in the USA.

  • Freyja Foy says:

    I first fell in love with the paintings of Gustav Klimt as a seventeen year old in twelfth grade, in Perth, Western Australia. When I first encountered Judith and the Head of Holofernes I blushed at the sight of her exposed skin and her haughty, sensual gaze. She became an instant favorite and her effect on me was such that I sometimes get to emulate her expression in my self-portraits.

    I have actually imagined what Judith would have smelled like, so it makes sense to me that she would carry notes of sultana, saffron, and jasmine, amidst other precious notes. Surely, breathing in this fragrance must be very much like smelling the delicate porcelain skin of Judith.

  • Freyja Foy says:

    I first fell in love with the paintings of Gustav Klimt as a seventeen year old in twelfth grade, in Perth, Western Australia. When I first encountered Judith and the Head of Holofernes I blushed at the sight of her exposed skin and her haughty, sensual gaze. She became an instant favorite and her effect on me was such that I sometimes get to emulate her expression in my self-portraits.

    I have actually imagined what Judith would have smelled like, so it makes sense to me that she would carry notes of sultana, saffron, and jasmine, amidst other precious notes. Surely, breathing in this fragrance must be very much like smelling the delicate porcelain skin of Judith.

    I am located in Jersey City, New Jersey, in the United States.

  • David F says:

    The golden queen is an adequate title given and all the ingredients match the moniker. Always had a thing for fragrance but not so much the wearer. It call make one stand out but the small batch craft easily makes one stand still. Would like to own and see how she wears not necessarily what the outsiders think. From North Carolina.

  • jamscents says:

    I’d love to participate in the giveaway! “The Gold Queen” sounds absolutely regal and I’m fascinated by the blend of sparkling citrus, rich florals, and warm, resinous notes. The concept of a fragrance capturing the essence of a powerful and radiant woman is so appealing. Thank you Cafleurebon and DSH Perfumes for this exciting opportunity! From US.

  • goknitintheocean says:

    Hi there,

    Seeing the Klimt Judith 1 painting here reminds me of the visit I made to LACMA in 2006 to see the five Klimts that were returned by Austria to the Altmann family, the rightful owners of the work, which was stolen from them by the Nazis. The beauty of Klimt’s art seems so nicely accented by my impressions of The Gold Queen; it would be so delightful to try this scent. Thank you so much for offering this. I live in NYC/USA.

    Cheers,
    Deborah

  • Eris.can.swatch.kaos says:

    I love that this is a perfume filled with botanicals. The golden theme is intriguing and creative, something I want to experience. Congratulations on 15 years and what a way to celebrate! I wonder if this Queen will “outshine” the others? I live in Oregon.

  • Danniel says:

    I’m in the USA and I’m very interested in experiencing what has been described as a gilded leather accord. Especially alongside the biblical reference notes of opoponax, sandalwood, and saffron. This sounds heavenly.

  • aditu says:

    What an evocative description. I love the idea of harnessing the scents of the ancient world to manifest both the spirit of a powerful queenly woman and the sensory reaction to the painting depicting her. I would love the chance to experience the marriage of the lush fruits, spices, and florals with the grounding elements of the resins, leather, and woods. In MA.

  • alleycat says:

    Wow there are some great accords here! Peach, apple, raisin…how fun! The hot metal against the golden fruit and florals sound incredible. I’m a huge fan of Dawn’s and have several of her perfumes. I am from New England, USA.

  • wallygator88 says:

    Thanks for the review! This fragrance and it’s note reminds me of an article that I had read about biblical/ancient perfumes. Love the use of saffron, opponax and a gold leaf accord along with the golden raisin accord to create a radiant aura.

    Cheers from WI, USA

  • Annika says:

    I love that Dawn Spencer Hurwitz populated the Gold Queen fragrance with so many sunny-hued notes. The golden fruits amd citruses support the yellow roses. I had no idea that the heirloom floral had such a distinctive scent incorporating lemon notes. The base of leather, woods and musk provide a burnished base. MD, USA.

  • Jenna Park says:

    The stories behind the fragrances always peak my interest. The combination of notes are also interesting. The fruity and yellow rose notes specifically have me interested in this fragrance. I want my fragrances to convey courage. beauty, and power just like some of the art I admire. I am from Pennsylvania USA

  • Catherine says:

    Gold is my favorite color so the name itself gave that opening spark already. This is bottled royalty encapsulated in biblical elements, fruits, and florals. Dawn and Michelyn are superb artists and this work is art reflects them both. From CA, USA.

  • Marcia Lins says:

    I love how you combined history and art into the discussion of this fascinating sounding scent. Today in Seattle was a golden glorious spring day and I feel like this scent would’ve been a perfect compliment to such ; the description you gave certainly was. Having elements of all the different corners of perfumery combine, all in shades of gold, sounds so delicious and I am sure Dawn and Michelyn were able to balance so many differing elements into something truly remarkable.

  • roxhas1cat says:

    I am curious that it is unlike the other queens. I have not seen golden raisin before listed as a note. So many gorgeous golden notes, I’d love to win this. thanks for the chance. USA.

  • Sherry K says:

    Hi, I am from Philly. What is intriguing about the above review is the combination of exotic ingredients I am not familiar with (opoponax) and unusual perfume ingredients like tomato and gold leaf. I can’t imagine how any of these notes might play together, but I am definitely intrigued and would love to try.

  • mginsh7 says:

    Wow, this perfume really sounds like a living Klimt painting! Opulent, provocative, and drenched in light and shadow– this sounds so beautiful! The use of golden fruits and resins mirroring the gilded layers of Judith I, all the beauty and danger shimmering together- truly so impressed and excited to smell this! From NC, USA

  • anjus says:

    The way Ida described the “gilded leather accord” really captured my imagination! The entire concept of a fragrance inspired by Klimt’s “Judith I” that translates visual gold into scent is simply brilliant, but I’m particularly intrigued by how DSH and Michelyn bridged modern perfumery with ancient sensibilities. So very eager to experience how these golden fruits and resins harmonize with that unique metallic gold leaf accord!
    USA

  • rileym says:

    The description of The Gold Queen as “otherworldly and unique and complex” is exactly what I look for in artistic perfumery… So fascinated by how Michelyn and DSH have translated the visual opulence of Klimt’s gold leaf techniques into fragrance form. In US

  • jayne7 says:

    The evocative descriptions of those “heirloom varieties of yellow rose” and “the richly animalic self-possession of grandiflorum jasmine” are beautiful! The concept of creating a fragrance that captures both the visual and emotional essence of Klimt’s “Judith I” is such a creative undertaking balancing regal dignity with sensuous voluptuousness – a challenging contrast for sure. I live in the US

  • chrissienew says:

    The integration of Biblically referenced materials like opoponax, sandalwood and saffron with modern perfumery approaches is so cool! I’m especially curious about that “hot metal of gold leaf” accord – how does one capture something so visual in scent form? Always searching for fragrances that tell rich stories like this collaboration between DSH and Michelyn seems to do- well done! I’m in the USA.

  • maitbe says:

    The Gold Queen as a “striking and original fruity floral chypre” sounds beautiful! Chypre is a category I love but rarely find truly new/innovative examples of. The golden raisin accord paired with yellow peach sounds absolutely divine! Particularly interested in how Dawn Spencer Hurwitz balanced the richness of these golden fruits with that intriguing metallic gold leaf accord to create something that’s simultaneously ancient and modern. From US

  • Krys Boyer says:

    My oldest granddaughter used to call me the Red Queen… what could be better than a Gold Queen metamorphosis?

    Dawn had my heart with Cardamom & Khyphi – discovered many years ago. I cherish my small vials of comfort that envelope me. Imagine a world created between Cafleurebon and Dawn. Could this be my next beloved?? I’d love to know.

    Wandering the Gold Coast of Florida, educating the leaders of tomorrow.

  • MerielK says:

    I have sampled, explored and loved many scents created by Ms. Hurwitz. There are so many reasons why I truly admire her artistry, not least of which is creating things that smell good. Browsing her website, I am exposed to her creative processes, which she shares, and which are always full of erudition, passion and the spirit of exploration. In short, I learn so much about so many things when it simply seems like I am shopping for fragrance. I am also very happy that she has mastered the vintage style so that I can experience how some of the oldies (and rapidly disappearing goodies) might have been like. It would be lovely to visit her studio in Colorado at some point; I’ve even asked if my sister one day would maybe venture there along with me. In the mean time, I am humbled by the continued creativity of this multi-talented artist.

  • sav17 says:

    I love everything Dawn creates, and the collaborations with Michelyn are always amazing. I loved reading about the inspiration behind The Gold Queen. I can see why Gustav Klimt’s Judith and the Head of Holofernes was chosen as the muse for the new creation. The combination of resins, grapes, apples, and gold leaf sounds quite stunning and luxurious. I would love to experience The Gold Queen!

    Thank you, Ida, for the great review, and thank you to DSH for the generous giveaway. I am located in the USA.

  • bentviolets says:

    I love Dawn’s work, especially her retro nouveau perfumes! The golden raisin and incense notes are very intriguing to me. I love the art piece that was picked as inspiration as well! Gorgeous! From the USA