A Touch of Tulips by The Scents of Amsterdam

A Touch of Tulips: An Oriental Floral by The Scents of Amsterdam

The Scents of Amsterdam introduced A Touch of Tulips in 2024 as an oriental floral eau de parfum for men and women. It opens with mandarin, incense, and ginkgo – a combination that feels both luminous and contemplative.

Creamy vanilla, orchid, and rose form the heart, whilst the base features labdanum, amber, and oud wood. The perfume strikes a balance between sweet, balsamic, and powdery nuances, making it a versatile choice for fans of complex orientals.

A Touch of Tulips is not a straightforward floral tribute. The tulip, after all, is not a note in the composition. Instead, the perfumer evokes the spirit of Amsterdam through a blend that is at once cosmopolitan and intimate. The bright mandarin top note is immediately softened by incense, which adds a resinous, almost church-like atmosphere.

The inclusion of ginkgo is a curious and clever twist. This ancient tree, common in city parks, contributes a slightly bitter, green freshness that prevents the opening from becoming too sugary. It is a subtle nod to nature within an urban setting.

As the fragrance develops, the vanilla note becomes the protagonist. It is rich but not cloying, and it wraps around the orchid and rose in a way that feels plush and comforting. The powdery aspect emerges here, giving the heart a vintage-inspired elegance.

The base is where the oriental character truly shines. Labdanum and amber create a sweet, resinous cradle, while the oud wood is used with restraint. Instead of a sharp animalic blast, the oud here feels smooth and polished, providing depth and longevity.

Officially, the top notes are mandarin, incense, and ginkgo; the heart notes are vanilla, orchid, and rose; and the base notes are labdanum, amber, and oud wood. The accords, as listed, include amber, vanilla, powdery, sweet, balsamic, floral, oud, citrus, and smoky – a comprehensive map of the fragrance's character.

Early user reviews have been exceptionally positive, with a perfect 5.0 rating. While one rating is a small sample, it suggests a promising start for a perfume that could easily become a signature scent for those who appreciate a soft yet persistent oriental floral.

This perfume is aimed at men and women who enjoy elegant, unisex oriental florals. It will particularly suit those who are drawn to vanilla-forward compositions with a powdery texture and a mild woody undertone. It is well suited to autumn and winter, or for cooler evenings in any season.

A Touch of Tulips is a beautifully constructed fragrance that manages to be both accessible and intricate. From the intriguing mix of mandarin, incense, and ginkgo to the comfortingly warm base of labdanum, amber, and oud, it offers a memorable wear with a distinctly Amsterdam character.