Atelier Cologne’s Collection Azur

Sylvie Ganter and Christophe Cervasel launched Atelier Cologne five years ago in homage to cologne, that classic family of fragrance with citrus as its raison d’etre. They even coined the term “Cologne Absolue” to express how a citrus-defined signature would define the intense heart of their brand—and their scents.

This spring, to mark the couple’s company anniversary, they are debuting a new quartet of scents under the “Collection Azur” banner. The collection is worth browsing. Especially for those who believe fragrance knows no gender but rather appeals to one’s brain, character, emotions and individuality.

Atelier Cologne, from its genesis, declared devotion to cologne with its citrus, green and herbal-loving roots. This new lineup continues the tradition with pomelo, orange, mandarin, bergamot and lemon melded with warm and often spicy natural raw materials (cedar, fig, magnolia) that originate from regions which the marketing scribes at Atelier Cologne refer to as where “the sea and sky become one”. That would be destinations around the globe, from Calabria, Sicily, Seville, Morocco, Haiti, Egypt, Madagascar to Provence. And even Virginia!

We love the complexity of these colognes; how they manage to be fresh—thanks to those citrus notes—but also moody, expressive, surprising. And the packaging! Atelier Cologne flacons come in sleek, apothecary-esque bottles—this time in deep Azure blue ones—alongside vibrant romantic postcards capturing the mood of the scent through artfully styled still life vignettes and a poetic quotes.

Below, you’ll find our first impression of each of the four new spritzes.

THE SCENT OF CEDRE

Cedre Atlas: The vetiver and cedarwood notes in this scent give a peppery freshness, reminiscent of both a snowy landscape and a roaring fire. The spice is accentuated by citrusy top notes, creating a lush, fragrance that is smart and sharp—and that would suit both men and women.

DEEP DARK FIG

Figuier Ardent: Bergamot, anise, cardamom and black pepper meld with bergamot and tonka bean in this spicy, rich scent. Then, the heart combines salty fig with fig leaf. The effect: subtle, earthy sweetness and warmth.

ICY, SPICY ORANGE

Mandarine Glaciale: The first whiff of this cologne is full-blown citrus: Mandarin, lemon and bergamot. Then comes oakmoss and vetiver for warmth and freshness, along with ginger and jasmine for satisfying complexity.

A ROSE BY ANOTHER NAME

Sud Magnolia: This spritz is warm with a hint of citrus. Bitter orange, pomelo and cedarwood mingle with magnolia, Bulgarian rose absolute and musk to create a flowery scent that is far from girly or precious. Instead, this refined and elegant fragrance warms as it dries and leaves a hint of the sweet spring bloom in its trail.

Atelier Cologne Collection Azur, $125 (100 ml) each, www.ateliercologne.com www.sephora.com

DISCOVER MORE CITRUS FRAGRANCES—ORANGE, NEROLI AND MANDARIN.