Our take
What does Five O'Clock au Gingembre smell like?
Serge Lutens released Five O'Clock au Gingembre in 2008, composed with Christopher Sheldrake. Lutens described it as tea at Buckingham Palace, a ritual built around candied ginger. The opening pairs tea with bergamot. It recalls Earl Grey more than a strong black tea. Candied ginger arrives almost at once. It is sweet and sharp, with cinnamon warming it up. Dry woods with an almost minty edge carry Sheldrake's signature. The base turns more gourmand. Honey and bitter cacao settle in while pepper and patchouli keep it from turning into candy. Amber rounds things off. Next to Chergui, another oriental from the house, Five O'Clock feels much lighter and airier. It is one of the easiest Lutens to wear. The trail stays discreet and longevity is average, which is surprising from a house known for dense perfumes.
When to wear it
An autumn afternoon scent, best indoors with a book. Spray generously, since it stays close to the skin.
It belongs to the Oriental / Amber, Spicy family. Five O'Clock au Gingembre is one of 31 creations by Serge Lutens in our encyclopedia.
