Ormonde Jayne Isfarkand Review (Linda Pilkington and Geza Schoen) 2005 + An Inclusive Giveaway

Ormonde Jayne Isfarkand

Ormonde Jayne Isfarkand by Karl

Ormonde Jayne Isfarkand composed by Linda Pilkington and Geza Schoen in 2005, embodies the perfect union of tradition and innovation. Inspired by Linda Pilkington’s husband and designed to elevate the cologne experience, what truly distinguishes Isfarkand is its role as one of the precursors to the genderless fragrance trends.

 Linda Pilkington of Ormonde Jayne

Linda Pilkington of Ormonde Jayne 

“Before my husband’s 30th birthday, I knew I wanted to give him something very special. I know the type of perfumes he wore when I had first met him, so I was very clear about how this cologne should smell…only better!” Linda Pilkington of Ormonde Jayne.

Ormonde Jayne Isfarkand 2005

Ormonde Jayne Isfarkand by Karl

The fragrance is a harmonious blend of familiar citrus cologne notes enriched with the distinctive Iso E Super’s velvety woody tones. This amalgamation of elements creates a unique olfactory journey that appeals to both traditionalists and modern enthusiasts. The fragrance unfolds with an invigorating introduction of top notes, where the zesty brightness of lime, mandarin, and bergamot intertwine. This citrus symphony establishes a refreshing aura, invoking the spirit of classic cologne compositions. Isfarkand’s heart is graced by the presence of pink pepper, infusing the composition with a subtle hint of spice. This addition not only adds complexity but also contributes to the contemporary dimension of the fragrance. The transition from the top notes to the heart creates a seamless progression that keeps the wearer engaged. Vetiver and moss, two quintessential elements in chypre perfumes, play a pivotal role in the dry-down of Isfarkand. Their presence adds an earthy depth, evoking a sense of natural elegance and sophistication. This infusion of chypre characteristics elevates Isfarkand beyond the realms of a traditional cologne, anchoring it firmly in the world of enduring perfumery traditions.

Linda Pilkington husband Saydam

Linda Jayne and her husband Saydam at Claridge Hotel  October 22, 2017 via Ormonde Jayne Instagram

“I get a lot of feedback about Isfarkand as it is enormously popular. Many clients report being stopped on the street and asked what they are wearing by strangers or by taxi drivers. There was one client who described how he had been trying to pluck up the courage to talk to a particular lady for months at his gym, and then the evening he first wore Isfarkand, she approached him to ask him what he was wearing, and a romance blossomed afterwards!” Linda Pilkington of Ormonde Jayne.

This inclusivity is evident in the fragrance’s adoption as a signature scent in luxury hotel suites around the world. Its versatility lies not only in its ability to be embraced by a diverse range of individuals but also in its adaptability to various settings and occasions.

Official Notes: Lime oil, Mandarin, Pink Pepper, Bergamot, Cedar, Iris, Vetiver, Moss 

Perceived: Iso E Super

*Ormonde Jayne Isfarkand was Wallpaper Magazine’s Best Scent of the year in 2006.

Disclaimer: Bottle of Ormonde Jayne Isfarkand sent to Karl for review, thoughts are his own.

Ormonde Jayne Isfarkand

Ormonde Jayne Isfarkand courtesy of the brand

Thanks to the generosity of Ormonde Jayne, we have a 50 ml bottle of Isfarkand for one registered reader in the USA or UK ONLY, You must register or your entry will not count. To be eligible, please leave a comment saying which note intrigues you most based on Karl’s review and where you live. What is your favourite Ormonde Jayne perfume?  Draw closes 8/14/23.

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42 comments

  • mugatzer says:

    I have never smelled Isfarkand, but now I must! All of the notes are ones that both my partner and I love, so I especially like that this is a fragrance we can share(/fight over). He loves woody citrus scents, and I adore iris and vetiver (…and pink pepper, and bergamot, and moss). I also really enjoyed Linda’s anecdote about the man getting confidence from wearing Isfarkand that led to him finding love. I live in the US. Thanks!

  • Arron_Q says:

    I love Ormonde Jayne scents because they carry an effervescent DNA that is so sparkling. I’m sure Isfaraknd is no exception. I love that it has classic chypre elements as that is one of my favorite styles. This seems like a relatively simple and refreshing scent, which I can certainly appreciate. My current favorites from the brand are Ormonde Man and Montabaco Intensivo. Best of luck to everyone. I live in NC, USA.

  • johnmadison says:

    Thank you for the review of Isfarkand, Karl!
    I love fragrance that has aspects of a classic cologne with bright citrus but what really intrigues me is the Iso E Super that adds those woody tones.
    I find myself taking a lot of taxis and I’m sure if I got this on my skin I would have a taxi driver asking me what this gorgeous scent is as well 🙂
    Thank you for this opportunity!
    John , Minnesota USA

  • aloesy says:

    Thank you for the lovely introduction Isfarkand! I am drawn to the triplet notes of lime, mandarin, and bergamot with the spice of the pink pepper, a bright, lively scent grounded by earthy and sophisticated notes. I would love to add this versatile perfume to balance my summer citrus perfumes.
    I am located in the US.

  • Brad Woolslayer says:

    I love the note of Iso E Super. It really has a magical quality to it. Adding lime and mandarin to the mix should really make this one quite special. I live in Maryland USA.

  • INYA says:

    My favorite from Ormonde Jayne is Ta’if. I liked the mention of mandarin, pink pepper, lime and moss. Sounds like a perfect unisex fragrance. Thanks for another awesome draw. Mich USA

  • Farewellsmell says:

    Great descriptive review by Karl. I’ve got to say that the Iso E super in this fragrance is the most intriguing for me, mostly because of it’s popularity brought on by Molecule 01. I don’t currently have a favorite Ormonde Jayne fragrance as I haven’t smelt any, but will definitely look into their collection.
    TX, USA.

  • Gig84 says:

    Comfortable high quality fragrances I adore , sunny Summer timelessness is what I’m thinking right now thanks to Karl Topham and Linda Pilkington, the elegant chypre called Isfarkand is what I need for such occasions.
    From the Ormonde Jayne perfumes I’ve smelled , Tolucand Vanille d’Iris are my two favorites.
    Thanks for the draw
    USA

  • Winnie says:

    What a fantastic review! I am most intrigued by the vetiver and moss, as I wonder how their earthy tones complement the spicy pink pepper and fruity mandarin! It seems like a very rounded perfume with those elements.
    Another Ormonde Jayne perfume I adore is Champaca! With notes of the champaka flower, that is so reminiscent of India.
    I live in California, USA.

  • Petra says:

    Citrus, cologne and chypre in one? Sounds lovely. One I have not smelled from Ormonde Jayne but would like to.

    UK shipping if I win.

  • FC says:

    Linda intended Ormonde Jayne Isfarkand for her husband and the composition’s woody composition does seem like it will remind some of classic men fragrances. It is easy to understand why it is one of the most popular in the line. My fav. from Ormonda Jayne is Nawab of Oudh. I am in US.

  • Amaziz89 says:

    with a subtle hint of spice. This addition not only adds complexity but also contributes to the contemporary dimension of the fragrance. The transition from the top notes to the heart creates a seamless progression that keeps the wearer engaged. Vetiver and moss, two quintessential elements in chypre perfumes, play a pivotal role in the dry-down of Isfarkand. Their presence adds an earthy depth, evoking a sense of natural elegance and sophistication. This infusion of chypre characteristics elevates Isfarkand beyond the realms of a traditional cologne, anchoring it firmly in the world of enduring perfumery traditions. A beautiful description by Karl I am intrigued by the notes especially Pink Pepper, Vetiver and Moss. I am not surprised this has got positive feedback from clients. Ormonde Jayne is a very special house because it was my ever first niche fragrance. My favourite from this house is Ormonde Man. Thanks a million from the UK

  • Ozzyaziz says:

    Official Notes: Lime oil, Mandarin, Pink Pepper, Bergamot, Cedar, Iris, Vetiver, Moss. I am really fascinated by the notes in particular Pink Pepper, Vetiver and Moss. This sounds like a magical concoction high praise from Karl and Linda’s stories about this being a compliment getter just adds to allure and mystery of this concoction. My favourite is Nawab of Oudh. Thanks a from the United Kingdom

  • bigpapa says:

    Would be interesting to know what fragrances her husband was wearing that she based these off of as inspiration. I love all the notes in this one especially Iso E, cedar, and pink pepper. NYC USA

  • soccergreat88 says:

    The ISO E part of the Review definitely caught my interest!!
    What a lovely and in depth review, I can’t wait to get my nose on it
    I haven’t tried many Ormande scents yet but my favorite so far has been Ormande Women
    Located in USA

  • roxhas1cat says:

    What an elegant couple. Love that story about the gentleman at the gym. If I am the lucky winner I would think hard if I should give this to my husband after the experience of the gentleman at the gym. I love this line, not sure if I smelled Isfarkand before. I own Vanille Iris (which I heard is being re-released and Ta’if). Thanks for the chance. USA.

  • chrisskins says:

    This is a great story – meet the man and bring his parfum up to snuff because, well, you can. They make a beautiful couple. I like that it’s versatile and has been co-opted for use in great hotels -why not? I’m most intrigued by the lime oil. I have and love Woman. Thank you; I live in NY.

  • zibbyz says:

    This does sound lovely, and I think the iso super e with the other notes is very intriguing. I don’t have a favorite ormande Jayne scent, so maybe this one will be the winner. Thanks for the review and the draw. In the US.

  • lavieest says:

    Interesting how this would smell! Unfortunately I don’t own any of the Ormonde Jaune house and would love to try.
    I am from US

  • rmsssss says:

    Isfarkand sounds so lovely and versatile. The lime note with the other citruses is really calling to me! Sounds very different from my other favorite from the brand, Ormonde Woman, but equally as beautiful. I’m in MN, USA.

  • Annika says:

    What an interesting mix of notes. I particularly like the iris/ vetiver/ island combination. Also Iso E super works very well on my skin. A chypre based cologne is always welcome in my fragrances wardrobe. Favorite OJ perfume is Woman. I’m in the US.

  • PARKE says:

    I don’t always follow the rules. What intrigues me about this fragrance is not a particular note. It is the blending of the notes and slow unfolding of it over time. It’s an award winner for good reason. It is perfect for warm weather and can be worn night or day.
    My favorite from the brand is Nawab of Oudh. I have owned it for years and it is still as mesmerising as it was when I first bought it.

  • IvanVelikov says:

    Isfarkand I’m sure is…. everything i don’t expect it to be , often Ormonde Jayne fragrances do smell so different to me , than the notes and reviews suggest .
    Such enigmatic woody and spicy aromatics like Isfarkand I enjoy . Obviously it clicked well with Karl, feels like it will click with me too. Other than Isfarkand elegance and versatility, I like the outfit of Linda Pilkington and her husband on the 4th picture.
    Don’t have a full bottle yet, just a decant of my favorite Taif , i also like Ambre Royal and Tolu
    Thank you Karl Topham, Ormonde Jayne
    USA

  • moisesst says:

    This fragrance sounds really good. I love a good classic cologne formulation, but I often feel unsatisfied in the dry down. I love that this incorporates some spices and woody tones with the iso e super.
    I live in Illinois, USA.

  • chki says:

    Iris and moss are the notes I’m most interested in. Montobaco Intensivo is a great scent so interested in sampling another OJ fragrance.

    Greetings from California.

  • Maestro says:

    Karl, I appreciate your excellent introduction to Isfarkand! I’m already a fan of Montabaco by Ormonde Jayne, and I found it delightful. When it comes to Isfarkand as a summer fragrance, what captivates me are the harmonious notes of lime, mandarin, and bergamot, along with the invigorating touch of pink pepper. It’s a vibrant and energetic scent, beautifully complemented by its grounding and sophisticated earthy undertones. Adding this versatile perfume to my collection would be perfect for balancing my array of summer citrus fragrances. Reagrads from Florida, the US.

  • cnii says:

    Isfarkand sounds like a classic, elegant cologne. I love how the perfumer designed it for her husband-what a birthday gift! I think the notes that probably intrigue me most are the moss and vetiver at the base. I do not have a favorite Ormonde Jayne fragrance, but I’d love to try this one! Thanks for the opportunity.
    I’m in WV, USA

  • BigMickyD says:

    This invigorating, citrusy, while keeping true to a traditional masculine aura with the inclusion of Vetiver and Moss, sounds absolutely lovely. I have not smelled anything from this brand before. I live in Sweden but I have an address in the USA.

  • WaltherP99 says:

    I’ve been a Linda Pilkington fan for a long , long time , a fighter and a dreamer at once.
    I know not all, but most of Ormonde Jayne fragrances, and if I have to rate my favorite ones depending on my mood , all 4 i own:
    1. Frangipani Made to Measure
    2. Ta’if Elixir
    3. Tolu /Montabaco Verano
    Like Karl i too sense of natural elegance and sophistication, to me Isfarkand starts very fresh, and is the heart turns into mediative woody and spicy fragrance, and mossy drydown , no wonder how popular it is .
    All profiles I already follow , @waltherp99bg
    USA

  • mmerline says:

    I’m still surprised when I encounter a fragrance marketed as for any particular gender or one that has to clarify it’s for all genders, but I’m all for whatever gets more people to expand their horizons. Try whatever notes, blends, or themes intrigue. In the case of Isfarkand, there’s a lot here to appeal to anyone; zesty citrus, a bit of spice, the ever popular Iso E Super, and a mossy vetiver base. It sounds like a foolproof wear.

    I’m in the USA. I haven’t tried any Ormonde Jayne perfumes, though Isfarkand sounds like a popular option, and I’d love to try it.

  • eunnyzzang says:

    The cutest story ever, scents really have a way of bringing people together sometimes. Perfumers are such talented artists. It’s fascinating how a good scent can function the way we commonly think about clothing and makeup too. From MI, USA

  • Michael Prince says:

    What note intrigues me most about Karl’s review of Ormonde Jayne Isfarkand is how Linda Pilkington made this for her husband to wear and over the years it has been known as a compliment getting fragrance that also started the movement for genderless fragrances. I am intrigued by the Lime Oil note with Iso E Super. My favorite Ormonde Jayne Perfume is Ormonde Jayne Man. I am from the USA.

  • Uncle1979 says:

    I never knew Isfarkand so popular and looked for by Ormonde Jayne fans. I like how Linda Pilkington created the fragrance as a loving gesture to her husband.
    Judging by the the article i have to say the meaning is clear , high class soothing and versatile fragrance.
    I relate all fragrances to some sort of food, and Karl Topham and Linda Pilkington made me think of a private event i cooked for last year , where I also had to make a few hundred lemon , orange, lime and mandarin tarts . I even attended the venue later on in a black suit, something quite rare for my lifestyle.
    To me Ormonde Jayne almost equals Ta’if Elixir,smells very, and I mean very similar to a traditional Persian cake with rose, cardamom, saffron, almonds , orange water and dates. It’s called Kayk-e Eshgh , but more people know it as Persian Love Cake. Love it , my bottle is almost gone
    Appreciate the review, Linda Pilkington sharing her thoughts on Isfarkand , and the giveaway campaign.
    USA

  • Caliwas says:

    Thank you for such a great write-up Karl on an inclusive gem of a fragrance that is adopted in luxury hotel’s. The notes of Lime oil and Iso E Super has to be a beautiful synergistic collaboration with citrus, vetiver and moss. I’m loving Isfarkand!))) Thanks for sharing the true brilliance the cologne conveys! Greetings from USA!

  • Regis Monkton says:

    I’ve never tried a fragrance which was made by Geza Schoen, and I’d like to see what his use of Iso E Super is like. I’m also very interested to try an Ormonde Jayne fragrance for the first time. I like to hear that this fragrance’s citrus aspect ” invokes the spirit of classic cologne compositions”. I’d like to see how pink pepper makes the fragrance seem contemporary. I live in the U.S.A.

  • Karen Ruano says:

    I love a good citrus fragrance and now make it a spiced citrus, you are really speaking my language! I know myself and my partner would love it! I am from New Jersey and my favorite perfume from the brand is Sakura

  • Bubeto_GG says:

    To me Isfarkand is not a chypre, but more of a woody and citrusy fragrance. Vetiver and oakmoss are notes i don’t detect in both Isfarkand and Isfarkand Elixir.
    Wearability of Isfarkand is top notch, fresh, woody with natural sweetness.
    I too perceive Iso-E Super in Isfarkand, it’s part of the official notes in Isfarkand Elixir. The difference between the two is that in Elixir Iso-E Super is amplified by a lot, the citruses are sharper and less sweeter, and there’s no pink pepper. Both are really good in a slightly different way.
    As for Ormonde Jayne fragrances , I told the story multiple times , but I’ll do it again, I had Tolu back in 2014 , but my younger cousin broke dropped it from the second floor of the house , and everything shattered.
    Tolu is still my favorite after all this time,i’m wearing it right now 😉
    Thank you for the opportunity
    USA

  • wallygator88 says:

    Thanks for the fascinating review. While I love the way that Jayne has built a beautiful fragrance, using citruses, Iso E, and a chypre structure, perhaps the stories are a true testament to how our noses percieve Iso -E super and it’s universailty.

    I have not had a chance to smell any fragrance from this house.

    Cheers from WI, USA