HEM Iris

 

I'm pretty sure this is the first time I've had an iris incense - indeed, it appears to be an uncommon scent for incense. The root of the iris (called orris root) has been used as a perfume by Ancient Egyptians and Ancient Greeks. The roots are matured for three to six years before being made into what is a rare, precious, valuable, and expensive ingredient in some top perfumes. It is used both for its own scent, and for its ability to fix a scent - to have it linger pleasantly for a long time before fading.  

The scent of orris root has musk and wood at the base, spice and heavy rose at the heart, and violets at the top. As it's an expensive oil to make, synthetic orris/violet is commonly used, and HEM would have made their own synthetic blend in their own laboratories. 

The scent on the stick is simply gorgeous - very floral and sweet: violets (Parma Violets especially), Morello cherry, at first, then some leather, dusty rose, before sandalwood and musk come through. A wonderful journey, nicely balanced and fresh throughout.  

There is a lot of black smoke when lit, but when the flame is blown out, it settles down into an attractive swirling grey as standard. The scent on the burn resembles that on the stick, though warmer and softer. This is a very gentle incense, and is probably a little too gentle for my taste. While I appreciate the softness and delicacy of it, and that is something I do desire now and again - such as on a soft Sunday morning; my heart will usually be grabbed by mighty scents that swagger in like heavy metal gods. All in all, though, this is a fine, fine scent.  I'll be keeping this packet in the house. I'd love to see more incense houses having a go at making an Iris incense. 

Date: May 2024   Score: 35

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HEM Corporation