217. JULIEN RASQUINET ~ the perfumer trained to be a champion.

<p>Julien Rasquinet, Senior Perfumer at CPL Aromas, had an incredibly fortuitous path to perfumery, and it began with a chance meeting at an airport. </p><p>Today, he is one of the most prolific and successful perfumers of all time, and when you hear his story, you&#39;ll understand why. </p><p>We chat about creating the perfect rose, where AI falls short, his least favorite kind of client briefs, the behind-the-scenes stories of your (my) fave perfumes, and how following his nose across the world led him to exactly where he was meant to be [our perfume shelves!]. </p><p><strong>SOTD</strong>: <a href="https://go.shopmy.us/p-73318194" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Veronique Gabai Noire de Mai</a> </p><p><strong>FRAG MENTIONED:</strong> Nishane Thorns become Roses, Estée Lauder Pleasures, Dior J’Adore, Davidoff Cool Water, BDK Tabac Rose, Naomi Goodsir: Iris Cendre, Bois d’Ascese, Cuir Velours; Creed Royal Oud</p><p><strong>SMELL CLUB</strong>: <a href="summerinabottle.eventbrite.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">summerinabottle.eventbrite.com</a></p><p><strong>BOOK A SCENT STYLING SESSION: </strong><a href="https://stele.nyc/products/scent-styling-emma-vernon" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">stele.nyc/products/scent-styling-emma-vernon</a></p><p><strong>EDITOR NOTE:</strong> In 2025, Perfumer/Founder Maya Njie released a perfume called <a href="https://www.mayanjie.com/products/aethi-opum-50ml?srsltid=AfmBOopeUhhSVtpZtVL27w9Fj72hCJDcxZm51q0lf4u65mS8lSwx_A0u" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Aethi Opum</a>, inspired by her own Gambian and Senegalese roots, with a gowé accord. The idea of gowé was something she had discussed with CPL Aromas a few years prior. </p>