Ysatis, from Givenchy was released in 1984. The perfumer behind this creation is Dominique Ropion. It has the top notes of Aldehydes, Bergamot, Brazilian Rosewood, Citruses, Coconut, Galbanum, Mandarin Orange, Orange Blossom, and Ylang-Ylang, middle notes of Carnation, Iris, Jasmine, Narcissus, Rose, Rum, and Tuberose, and base notes of Amber, Bay Leaf, Civet, Cloves, Honey, Musk, Oakmoss, Patchouli, Sandalwood, Vanilla, and Vetiver.
This is a rich, floral oriental composition with a pronounced vintage character. It is a scent from another era, yet not outdated but rather timeless, like a piece of jewellery inherited from a grandmother who knew exactly who she was. The opening strikes with an intense, almost suffocating bouquet of flowers, marked by a clear bitterness and a subtle sharpness. It hits you in the face without warning, bold, assertive and unapologetic. As the initial shock fades, the fragrance grows even denser. The florals here are neither innocent nor delicate; they are mature, heavy and honeyed. In the base, amber and musk, reinforced by woody accords, wrap tightly around your skin, giving the composition a dark depth. A subtle animalic shadow also emerges, which, combined with patchouli and vanilla, gives a dirty sweetness and earthy richness. Longevity is very good, and although the scent settles closer to the skin after about an hour, it remains intense in perception.