"The element of surprise is one of the city’s trademarks." Flash Back in New York by Olfactive Studio is a modern woody fragrance—slightly smoky, warm and full of contrasts.
The fragrance opens with an energetic blend of cumin, saffron, and sage, creating an immediate sense of intrigue. The heart reveals a captivating mix of violet and jasmine, softened by the richness of Tuscan leather, adding warmth and texture. As it develops, the scent transitions into a deep, addictive base of smoked birch, papyrus, and vetiver, echoing the city’s raw yet refined energy.
Each bottle is a tribute to photography, designed in luxurious glass with a cap that subtly nods to a camera lens. Inside the box, you’ll find the original photograph—an artistic reminder of the inspiration behind this unique fragrance.
Inspired by Vivienne Gucwa’s striking photograph of New York in the midst of a blizzard, Flash Back in New York captures a city that never stops, even under layers of snow. Imagine a snow-covered avenue glowing under warm city lights, with the Chrysler Building shining in the distance—this is where the fragrance finds its inspiration.
Just like New York itself, it is a blend of contrasts: fiery energy beneath a frozen exterior, a scent that reflects the city's boldness, intensity, and endless possibilities. The beginning is spicy with cumin, saffron and sage. Light florals in the heart provide a soft accord. A surprisingly smoky and earthy note comes from smoked birch bark and vetiver. From its “big sister” Flash Back, the briny of vetiver was kept where perfumer Jérôme Epinette added a warm, enveloping twist.
Violet, Linen flower, Birch tar, Sage, Cumin, Papyrus, Jasmine, Leather, Saffron, Tonka beans, Vetiver
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Woody
Woody fragrances are full of character and indeed very woodsy. They can be warm, soothing and creamy, but also dry and spicy. Key ingredients are cedar wood, patchouli, sandalwood and/or vetiver. Oudh (agarwood), Palo Santo and guaiac wood have also joined the perfumer's palet, just like the fantastic synthetics such as Javanol or Iso-E-Super.
Jerome Epinette
Jérôme Epinette is a senior perfumer at Robertet Fragrances in New York. He began his career in 2003 and has an extensive list of niche perfumes to his name, like Byredo, Atelier Cologne, Vilhelm and Olfactive Studio. He is known for his short and simple formulas that exude elegance and class. A man of the senses, Jérôme is also a talented cook and loves to blend different flavors with traditional French cuisine.