Cardamome by Lanvin c1979

Launched in 1979, Cardamome (Moyen Orient) by Lanvin arrived in a period when the fragrance market was expanding into new territories and experimenting with novel concepts. During the late 1970s, the trend in perfumery was shifting towards more exotic and richly layered compositions, often drawing inspiration from various global influences. Lanvin's decision to introduce a fragrance specifically for the Middle Eastern market reflected this trend, as the region was known for its appreciation of bold and opulent scents.

Cardamome, classified as a spicy oriental fragrance for men, aligns with the period's fascination with rich, sensual, and complex fragrances. Orientals, characterized by their warm and spicy profiles, were increasingly popular during this era, and Lanvin's choice to focus on cardamom—a spice integral to Middle Eastern cuisine—was a nod to this trend.

The name "Cardamome" is derived from the French term for cardamom, a spice known for its aromatic, slightly sweet, and pungent qualities. Cardamom is a spice commonly used in Middle Eastern cooking and was chosen to evoke the richness and complexity associated with the region's traditional scents. The word "Cardamome" suggests a fragrance with depth and warmth, drawing from the exotic and luxurious connotations of cardamom itself.

Women and men alike would likely have responded to this perfume with an appreciation for its unique and sophisticated blend. The name "Cardamome" evokes images of spice markets and opulent Middle Eastern palaces, creating a sense of mystery and allure. The word conveys the idea of a fragrance that is both exotic and comforting, designed to transport the wearer to a world of luxury and sensuality. In the context of perfume, "Cardamome" suggests a scent that is richly layered and complex, meant to appeal to those who seek a distinctive and memorable fragrance experience.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a spicy oriental fragrance for men.

• Top notes: cardamom, bergamot, cinnamon, clove, mace
• Middle notes: coriander, rose, vetiver, musk, jasmine, saffron
• Base notes: cedar, benzoin, oakmoss, Mysore sandalwood, ambergris, patchouli, vanilla

al-Nahḍah - Issues 648-656, 1980:

"The delicious scent of cardamom emanates from the fragrance of Cardamome by Lanvin - Paris."

Scent Profile:

Cardamome, classified as a spicy oriental fragrance for men, offers a rich, multifaceted olfactory experience. It opens with an invigorating burst of cardamom, its warm, spicy aroma mingling with a hint of citrusy zest. This is complemented by bergamot, which introduces a fresh, tangy brightness, and cinnamon, with its warm, sweet spiciness. Clove adds a pungent, aromatic intensity, while mace contributes a subtle, nutty warmth, enhancing the fragrance's depth and complexity.

As the fragrance evolves, the heart reveals a sophisticated blend of notes. Coriander adds a fresh, citrusy edge with a hint of herbaceousness, balancing the spicier top notes. Rose unfolds with its classic floral richness, offering a romantic and elegant touch. Vetiver introduces an earthy, woody aroma with a green and slightly smoky quality, grounding the scent. Musk provides a soft, intimate warmth, while jasmine adds a creamy, opulent floral note. The exotic nuance of saffron enriches the fragrance with a rich, slightly leathery and spicy scent, enhancing its oriental character.

The base notes of Cardamome offer a deep, lasting impression. Cedar contributes a dry, woody scent that is both warm and structured, while benzoin adds a resinous sweetness with a balsamic richness. Oakmoss introduces an earthy, forest-like quality with a slightly damp character, grounding the base. Mysore sandalwood imparts a creamy, smooth, and luxurious woody aroma, creating a sophisticated and long-lasting foundation. Ambergris adds a marine warmth with a complex, slightly sweet and musky aroma, while patchouli provides a deep, earthy richness. Finally, vanilla rounds out the base with a sweet, comforting warmth, blending seamlessly with the other base ingredients.

Together, these elements create a fragrance that is both opulent and exotic, reflecting the spicy oriental character typical of the 1970s perfume trends.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Cardamome, a fragrance uniquely crafted for the Middle Eastern market, was introduced with the intent to cater specifically to the region's olfactory preferences. Launched in 1979, it embraced the rich and complex scent profile favored in Middle Eastern perfumery, featuring an opulent blend of spicy and oriental notes. However, despite its initial appeal and targeted design, Cardamome was discontinued in 1983. The discontinuation marked the end of a distinct chapter in Lanvin’s fragrance portfolio, as the perfume's specialized formulation and regional focus reflected the evolving trends and preferences within the global perfume market.

Cardamome remains one of Lanvin's most elusive fragrances. Its exclusivity to the Middle Eastern market and its discontinuation in 1983 have contributed to its rarity and mystique. The perfume's rich, spicy oriental composition, characterized by dominant cardamom and complemented by a complex blend of top, middle, and base notes, has made it a sought-after collector's item and a symbol of Lanvin’s sophisticated approach to regional scent preferences. Its scarcity and the intrigue surrounding its unique formulation only enhance its allure among fragrance enthusiasts and collectors.