MCM shows fragrance strength with ONYX

MCM has introduced MCM ONYX Eau de Parfum, the first men’s fragrance from the German luxury brand, produced in partnership with Interparfums.

Synonymous with the powerful gemstone, MCM ONYX is said to inspire energy, empowerment and strength. The futuristic woody fougère scent is born from the clash between luxury craftsmanship and new-tech perfumery, the company said.

Inspired by the brand’s signature Stark backpack, MCM ONYX reimagines MCM’s original award-winning fragrance bottle design in a modern, yet refined colourway, wrapped in black Visetos paired with metallic grey accents.

MCM ONYX men's fragrance

Sabine Brunner, President of MCM, said: “This design is at heart of MCM DNA, epitomising the free spirit of travel. We are excited about this new fragrance that takes our tribe of 21st century digital nomads on a transcending journey from ingredient to sentiment, fragrance to feeling and note to emotion."

Top notes are ginger, pink pepper and grapefruit, while the middle notes consist of Lavender Naturals Together, basil and violet leaf. The woody base notes of Vetiver Naturals Together, Clearwood and tonka leave a trail of warmth contrasted with an added long-lasting minerality.

Senior Perfumer Clément Gavarry of Firmenich, who created the fragrance, said: “When I was working on MCM ONYX, I wanted to ensure it captured the essence of freedom in a fresh and modern way. The scent’s effervescent notes of spices and ginger, along with fresh lavender and warm woods encapsulate the feeling of being unstoppable.”

Described as a responsible creation, MCM ONYX’s vegan formula is made of over 79% biodegradable ingredients and over 89% of its ingredients are created using green chemistry principles – both key for a more sustainable fragrance future. Over 72% of its sustainably sourced Naturals Together ingredients make a positive social impact on local communities all over the world, according to MCM.

MCM ONYX is available in 30ml, 50ml and 75ml sizes.

Glenfiddich unveils homage to Japanese culture

Glenfiddich has introduced the latest release from its ground-breaking Grand Series whisky collection, fusing flavours from Scotland and Japan.

Grand Yozakura, which is described as the first single malt Scotch whisky to be finished in rare ex-awamori spirit casks, will make its travel retail debut in selected airports in Europe and Asia from late March, supported by high-profile activations.

The 29yo limited-edition whisky is matured at the Glenfiddich distillery in Dufftown and finished in oak casks that previously matured awamori, the oldest distilled alcoholic spirit in Japan.

Glenfiddich Grand Yozakura 29yo single malt Scotch whisky

Awamori is made using long grain indica rice, and is traditionally stored in clay pots and matured in oak casks. It is said that the technique for making the spirit has not been altered in over 500 years. Only a small proportion of awamori is aged in oak casks, making them exceptionally rare.

Grand Yozakura celebrates Hanami – the renowned cherry blossom festival, when Japan celebrates the beauty of nature through the sakura. A time for renewal and optimism, the festival is best experienced illuminated after dark, where it is known as the Yozakura or night sakura.

The packaging of Grand Yozakura aims to bring this meeting of cultures to life with a signature illustration created by Japanese artist June, who creates visions incorporating Japanese culture and landscapes. The whisky packaging includes a bespoke topper and traditional poem printed onto each specially designed outer.

Glenfiddich Malt Master Brian Kinsman said: “We are always looking to experiment with new finishes so when the chance arose to acquire rare ex-awamori casks we saw an opportunity to push the boundaries and experiment with this highly unusual spirit. This is the first time that single malt Scotch whisky has been finished in these rare casks. We always learn something new when we lead with innovation, so taking a risk is worth it, and in the case of awamori we trialled a very small number of casks at a younger age first.”

Glenfiddich Global Brand Director Claudia Falcone enthused: “The Grand Series underpins Glenfiddich’s spirit of innovation, and Grand Yozakura is no exception. It is perhaps the most ground-breaking expression to sit alongside the series so far, whilst also being the first limited-edition release. Bringing together two scarce components accentuates the anticipation and sense of occasion, paying homage to the brand’s innovative nature when it comes to creating dynamic whiskies of the highest quality.”

Gwilym Cooke, Head of Brand Marketing for Global Travel Retail at Glenfiddich’s brand owner William Grant & Sons, added: “We are pleased to once again be partnering with key retailers to showcase this latest addition to our pioneering Grand Series collection within travel retail – a vital channel for the luxury spirits business. In line with our commitment to innovate, this new whisky offers a unique taste experience and compelling story that will be hugely appealing to both new and established whisky drinkers.”

Tasting notes

On the nose: Zesty, ripe fruits and caramelised almonds. Rich oak notes with hints of cinnamon and a distinctive herbal zing. Taste: Toasted oak, creamy vanilla toffee and silky tannin. Bursts of spice and sherbet lemons with crunchy green apple and warming earthy tones. Finish: Long-lasting oak.