Oxford
Ruth Mastenbroek (2015)

With Oxford Ruth Mastenbroek brings to the wearer a nice ‘gent in suit' fougère with a jaunty lavender signifying brisk efficiency and a twinkle of powders in the background. But there's also a nod to the student lolling in the city's idyllic meadows, with hay-like and minty herbal notes floating over the mix. While being well-constructed, Oxford didn't really do it for me, as the vanilla (or tonka) sweetness in the base seems like a lazy fallback and the promised oud note that would have earthed it seems shy to the point of non-existence. Indeed, had Oxford lingered in the meadow a bit longer, taken that exploration of harmonious yet slightly ragged nature a bit further, it would have been more of a contender. But that could just be my personal taste – if you like breezy but sweet lavenders, Oxford could be for you.

A really "comfortable" mix of floral and oud, deep, earthy vetiver. Its a really well blended fragrance, that has a freshness to it while also giving really being deep and resounding. I am not sure what floral notes here are similar to iris, but I pick up a good deal of it prior to it settling into its base. Normally, I am not a fan of that note, but it really works well here. I look forward to trying other Mastenbroek fragrances based- upon this fine offering.

Fresh, citrus, herbaceous and tres elegant!