Point of No Return

Point of No Return starts with spice and ends in smoke. Cardamom and pink pepper give a dry, aromatic crackle, and bergamot adds a clean flash of citrus before the incense moves in. The heart is the main event. Frankincense rises as a pale grey smoke, myrrh adds a bitter, balsamic depth and juniper berries bring a cool, gin-like sharpness that keeps the resins from feeling heavy. Cedarwood forms the spine of the base, dry and pencil-shaven, with patchouli adding a damp, earthy shadow and a thread of vanilla softening the edges so the smoke turns almost sweet. The overall effect is calm and a bit ceremonial. At 30 percent extrait strength it lasts all day and leaves a measured, steady trail. Wear it in autumn and winter, to the theatre, to dinner or on a quiet day when you want a scent that feels like a statement. Two sprays will do. Bottom line: a meditative frankincense and myrrh scent with a clean cedar backbone.