by Masque Milano
Russian Tea by Masque Milano is a rich, deeply smoky leathery tea fragrance with a surprising minty freshness that unfolds with complexity. The initial burst is sharp and intense—bright peppery mint, sharp black tea, and a sly hint of raspberry—creating a bold, almost medicinal opening. Over time, the mint fades, revealing a core of smoky birch, real black tea, and warm, supple leather. This transformation is gradual and layered, shifting from bright and outspoken to dark, enveloping, and quietly confident. The dry down is especially compelling: a woody, incense-laced leather note with a subtle sweet air, reminiscent of an aged book or a quiet winter study. While much of the fragrance's character comes from its intricate balance of bitterness and sweetness—countered by crisp mint and a faint animalic warmth—its best moments are intimate and introspective, evoking a Russian tea room by the fire. It's most appreciated in colder weather and in quiet, private moments, rather than in crowded spaces or social settings. The scent is highly wearable but demands attention, making it more of a signature piece than a crowd-pleaser.