Penhaligon’s Juniper Sling

Penhaligon’s, the English perfume house founded in the 1860’s, has released its newest Eau de Toilette, Juniper Sling (that’s a slick name). Inspired by London Dry Gin, it was created by the perfumer Oliver Cresp and is meant to pay homage London’s roaring twenties.

According to a supporting press release, “For enigmatic boys and girls, Juniper Sling is a crisp cocktail shot of gin with the freshness of juniper, cool measures of angelica and brandy and a beating libertine heart of black pepper, cardamom, soft leather and orris. A gourmand base of brown sugar, black cherry and amber add sensuality to the scent.”

To support the launch, Penhaligon’s has produced a mock-umentary portraying Juniper Sling’s effect.

Upon trying Juniper Sling for the first time I was impressed. To me it’s slightly smoky and sweet. After about an hour, I begin smelling leather. All the while though, gin sits nicely on the sideline winking hello without being obnoxious. This potpourri of scents brought to mind a swanky smoke filled room with plush leather lounge chairs. Could that be the influence of its supporting video kicking in, perhaps? After wearing it a few times, however, Juniper Sling reminds me of updated gin I’ve taken a liking to, Breuckelen Gin.

I discovered this gem when I popped into one of Fort Greene Brooklyn’s finest wine shops, The Green Grape, one Saturday afternoon. What hooked me was how fragrant this gin was. It too has juniper and to me added to the experience as it eased the harshness. It was a fragrant detail I couldn’t live without so I bought a bottle on the spot.

Penhaligon’s Juniper Sling will do well. It’s another creation that simultaneously speaks to its brand heritage while offering a bit of modernity. That’s a difficult balancing act in my book. I don’t mind a masculine scent but I don’t want to be beaten over the head with bravado. This is sharp and I can see guys taking to this one for years to come.

In stores now, 50ml will run you $110 and 100ml goes for $140.