Illustration by Andy Tauer

Back in 2011, Andy Tauer of Tauer Perfumes created a limited edition fragrance for the holidays, some of which was given away during his annual advent giveaway, and the rest selling out quickly. I was a bit heartbroken not to obtain any, because the idea of a Tauer cologne was just too intriguing. Now, Andy has brought this fragrance, Cologne du Maghreb, into wider release, and I am delighted.

"Summer Haze" by Christina Rahm

Cologne du Maghreb is a purely natural fragrance, like colognes have traditionally been, full of lovely citruses and herbs that are bright and refreshing. What is wonderful about this cologne is the slightly deeper underbelly of a fabulously floral lavender and clary sage. A touch of rose brings this cologne directly into Andy’s aromatic territory. The whole composition enjoys a dichotomy of being uniquely modern and full of history.

"Five Lemons" Jennifer Commers

As with most colognes, the impulse is to spray lavishly, in order to get the full benefit of the juicy lemon and citrus opening that is a true antidote to summer heat.  Andy recommends spraying heavily then putting a shirt on right away to capture the scent. With Cologne du Maghreb, spray at will, but you want to make room for the full-bodied heart. The citrus notes hover at the edges throughout, and that gorgeous lavender provides a soothing counterpoint. As the fragrance progresses, it becomes a bit drier, a bit grassier, and quite comfortable; a good lolling in the grass perfume. The longevity is somewhat better than most colognes, but you’ll want to carry it with you to enjoy that refreshing opening during the day.

Andy Tauer is one of my favorite perfumers and I have been championing his work for several years. So, I am championing again, this time for a product that is different from Andy’s usual work, but still uniquely his. If you enjoy a good cologne, as I do, Cologne du Maghreb is definitely worth a try. I am also excited to report that this is the first in a series of proposed annual colognes.

Notes: Citrus accord, cistus, ambreine, cedarwood, java vetiver oil, bergamot, lemon, neroli, orange blossom, lavender, rosemary, rose absolute, rose essential oil, clary sage

I received my sample from Tauer Perfumes USA distributor, Hypoluxe. Cologne du Maghreb is available worldwide on the Tauer Perfumes website and online at  Twisted Lily   Lucky Scent and  Indigo Perfumery and in select stockists worldwide.

Tama Blough, Managing Editor

Thanks to Hypoluxe and Tauer Perfumes, we have a draw for a sample for each of five US readers, and a sample for each of five readers in the UK and Europe (excluding Russia, Ukraine, Italy, and Greece). That makes ten samples we are giving away. Let us know in the comments what you think you will like about this perfume, your favorite Tauer perfume, and where you live. Draw ends June 22, 2014.

We announce the winners only on site and on our Facebook page, so Like Cafleurebon and use our RSS option…or your dream prize will be just spilled perfume.