Bal d'Afrique

Bal d'Afrique, released by Byredo in 2009 and composed by Jérôme Epinette, is mainly woody, with floral and citrus sides in support.

The top notes are bright and unusual: bergamot gives a clean, slightly bitter citrus lift, buchu a minty, blackcurrant-like herbal note, and African marigold a green, bitter and slightly fruity floral character that defines the opening. In the heart, violet brings a soft, powdery sweetness, and cyclamen a watery, transparent floral note. The base is dry and elegant: cedar gives a clean, pencil-shaving woodiness, and vetiver an earthy, slightly smoky dryness.

Most wearers report moderate longevity, with a fair share finding it weak, and its sillage is mostly described as moderate or close to the skin. It is voted mainly for spring and summer, and largely as a daytime scent. It is worn by anyone and suits the office, warm days and casual occasions, for people who like a bright, green floral over dry woods, with a sunny, slightly exotic character that stays polished rather than loud.

Bal d'Afrique — unisex fragrance by Byredo (released 2009). Top notes: Bergamot, African Marigold, Buchu or Agathosma. Heart notes: Violet, Cyclamen. Base notes: Vetiver, Cedar. — Parfica open fragrance database