This is one exquisite, gorgeous candle. It is large, a full 15.5 oz in a beautiful thick, heavy, and slightly iridescent spruce colored glass, it’s an absolute stunner! Of course, with all LAFCO candles, it’s beautifully packaged, so it makes the ideal gift, and now that the gift-giving season is upon us, it’s time to stock up.
It’s the fragrance though, oh this warm, woody, sophisticated fragrance, that has me gobsmacked, it’s utterly divine. Described as “Nostalgic and Woody” (I won’t disagree, and I’ve never been one to back down from a good fragrance debate!) “A vibrant green earthy fragrance that captures the exhilarating aromatic energy of a winter forest." The opening is an inspired mix of mint-infused eucalyptus, balsam fir needle, and spicy oud wood. Sandalwood, patchouli, and vetiver give the creamy texture to the heart, while incense, cedarwood and burnished amber create a warm and inviting dry down.” This is what I love so much about this candle, it’s so complex, it could almost be a high-end niche perfume. Creamy sandalwood, patchouli, vetiver, oud and amber and you have the base for some of the chicest scents on the market. Then throw on the fir needle, eucalyptus and incense and you have the perfect winter candle (although let’s be honest, this could be burned any time of year!) I love it, it’s going to be my go-to this season!
That being said, I know some of you have been long-time fans of LAFCO’s famous Tree candle, and that has been your go-to holiday candle. OK, I know change can be hard, but it can also be really exciting, breathe new life into old ways, and it’s a great way to mix things up a bit. Reality check, I know we are just talking about candles here, not life changing decisions, but some of us do get a bit attached to our favorite candles, me included, so if you are looking for your new holiday favorite, give LAFCO Winter Balsam a go, you won’t regret it!
Lynette Reed, Fragrance fanatic, founder of Illume Candles, Izzy Sayan Perfume, Fluid Fragrances, and creative consultant to many high-end fragrance brands.
