Call Me Iris.

Call Me Iris was born from the memory of founder Nadia Benaisa’s childhood garden in Brussels, where iris blossoms edged the hedges. In 2021, perfumers Jérôme Epinette and Pierre Wulff were tasked with turning that recollection into a scent that feels both fresh and intimate. The name invites the wearer to address the flower directly, as if recalling a forgotten conversation with a dear friend. The brief was to pair the luminous iris with a modern twist, layering it over a bright citrus opening that could capture the garden’s early morning light.

The composition’s intrigue lies in the contrast between the airy citrus trio and the powdery iris, bridged by frankincense’s resinous whisper. Pink pepper adds a fleeting spark, while vanilla softens the drydown, and fir balsam introduces a subtle woody edge. This blend mirrors the garden’s transition from sunrise sparkle to the quiet hush of late afternoon, making the fragrance both lively and contemplative.

The first ten minutes are dominated by lemon’s sharp clarity and bergamot’s bright warmth, with pink pepper flashing a quick, peppery bite that lifts the opening. As the top fades, the heart emerges: iris petals unfold in a soft, powdery veil, while frankincense weaves a gentle, incense‑like haze that adds depth without heaviness. By the half‑hour mark the composition settles into its base, where vanilla spreads a sweet, creamy warmth that hugs the skin, and fir balsam contributes a dry, resinous wood that grounds the scent. The drydown lingers for four to six hours, leaving a subtle, powder‑kissed trail that feels like a lingering garden breeze rather than an overpowering cloud.

Since its 2021 debut, Call Me Iris has been noted for reviving the iris genre with a modern, citrus‑spiced edge. Reviewers often compare its airy opening to Byredo’s Gypsy Water, while its powdery heart recalls classic French iris compositions. The fragrance has found a niche among those who appreciate a fresh take on floral‑woody scents, becoming a go‑to for spring garden outings and understated daytime events.