CHOPARD CEDAR MALAKI

CHOPARD CEDAR MALAKI EDP

When Chopard fragrances were launched in South Africa a few years ago, we did a little dance of joy (no incriminating pics required). At that time, we were familiar with releases from other luxury jewellery brands (Bulgari, Boucheron, Cartier, etc) and had heard only good things about the Swiss company.

All justified, as it turned out. The Middle Eastern-influenced Malaki range is particularly good. We also recommend Chopard Oud Malaki EDP (2012), Chopard Amber Malaki (2015) and Chopard Black Incense Malaki EDP (2020).

A 2023 addition to the collection, Chopard Cedar Malaki EDP gets going with the aromatics of cardamom, cypress and lavender. There’s herbaceousness from artemisia, with just the right amount of bitterness. 

With two types of cedarwood (Atlas and Lebanon), the effect of this creation by master perfumer Alberto Morillas is warm and slightly camphor-ish. One of the main woods in perfumery, cedarwood is known for its versatility and integral role in building impactful woody accords. Part of the conifer family, the main varieties include Atlas (from the Atlas Mountains in Morocco), Lebanon (the tree is represented on the country’s flag), Himalayan and Virginian (not a true cedar and actually from the juniper family).

The amber accord in the drydown is big on the muskiness of labdanum and earthy spiciness of cypriol and patchouli.

This is quality stuff and so reasonably priced, ensuring the olfactory pleasure keeps on coming.

“Sustainability” is often just a corporate buzzword, but from the admirably detailed product info, Chopard seems to be doing more than most to ensure their fragrances meet their “do good, feel good” philosophy. The brand emphasises its commitment to responsibly and ethically sourced ingredients (many of them naturals) from certified partners.

Stockists: Selected Truworths and Foschini stores.