The Verdict

Scent Profile: Sweet mint, tangerine, and bourbon create a refreshing yet boozy blend.
Seasonality: Ideal for spring and summer, with a touch of fall warmth.
Sillage: Moderate, projecting up to 5 feet.
Longevity: 6+ hours.

Introduction:

Imaginary Authors, a Portland-based niche perfume house, is celebrated for its imaginative storytelling through fragrance. Saint Julep Extrait De Parfum is one of their standout creations, inspired by the laid-back charm of the American South. It’s a scent that conjures images of lazy afternoons on a sunlit porch, sipping a mint julep with the faint hum of cicadas in the background. With its refreshing yet warm profile, Saint Julep is a fragrance that feels both nostalgic and invigorating.

Fragrance Notes:

Top Notes: Sweet mint, tangerine
Heart Notes: Southern magnolia
Base Notes: Bourbon, Grisalva, sugarcube

Fragrance Profile:

Saint Julep opens with a burst of sweet mint and tangerine, delivering an immediate sense of freshness and vibrancy. The mint is crisp and lively, while the tangerine adds a juicy, citrusy brightness. As the fragrance settles, the heart note of Southern magnolia emerges, adding a soft, floral elegance that evokes the genteel charm of the South. The base notes of bourbon, Grisalva, and sugarcube bring warmth and depth to the scent. The bourbon provides a boozy richness, while the Grisalva adds a subtle, leathery complexity. The sugarcube contributes a delicate sweetness, rounding out the fragrance with a creamy, comforting finish. The overall effect is a well-balanced blend of freshness, floral warmth, and boozy depth.

Occasion:

Saint Julep is a versatile fragrance that suits a variety of occasions. Its fresh, minty opening makes it ideal for casual daytime wear, whether you’re attending a brunch or a summer picnic. The warm, boozy undertones also make it suitable for evening events, such as a garden party or a relaxed dinner. It’s a scent that transitions seamlessly from day to night, making it a practical choice for those who want a signature fragrance that adapts to different settings.

Season:

This fragrance shines in spring and summer, where its minty, citrusy top notes feel refreshing and invigorating in the heat. However, the warm, boozy heart and base give it enough depth to carry over into early fall. It’s not a heavy, winter fragrance, but rather a bright, uplifting scent that captures the essence of warmer seasons. Those living in milder climates may find it wearable year-round, especially on days when a touch of warmth is needed.

Performance:

Saint Julep performs well for a fragrance of its type. It’s not overpowering, but it has a noticeable presence that makes it suitable for both close encounters and social gatherings. The mint and citrus notes in the opening are vibrant and refreshing, while the magnolia and bourbon in the heart provide a comforting warmth. The sugarcube and Grisalva in the base ensure that the scent doesn’t disappear too quickly, leaving a pleasant, lingering trace.

Longevity:

6+ hours. 

Sillage:

Moderate, projecting up to 5 feet.

Conclusion:

Imaginary Authors’ Saint Julep Extrait De Parfum is a charming and versatile fragrance that captures the essence of a Southern summer. Its refreshing mint and tangerine opening, combined with the floral warmth of magnolia and the boozy depth of bourbon, make it a delightful scent for spring and summer. While it may not have the strongest longevity or sillage, it makes up for it with its unique and evocative blend of notes. For those seeking a fragrance that feels both fresh and comforting, Saint Julep is a worthy addition to any collection. It’s a scent that invites you to slow down, sip a cocktail, and savor the moment—just like a lazy afternoon on a Southern porch.