Launched in 1938, A Bientôt by Lentheric was a fragrance that carried a name both evocative and memorable. The phrase "A Bientôt," which translates from French to "See you soon," suggests a sentiment of farewell and anticipation, a promise of a future encounter. This choice of name subtly hints at a fragrance that is designed to leave a lingering impression, a scent that one would eagerly anticipate revisiting.
The name "A Bientôt" evokes images of elegance and sophistication, as well as a sense of temporary parting and the excitement of future reunions. It captures the essence of an encounter that is both memorable and fleeting, suggesting that the fragrance itself is something to be cherished and looked forward to. The emotions tied to this name are those of nostalgia and longing, wrapped in the allure of a fragrance that promises to leave a lasting mark.
In terms of scent, A Bientôt translates this evocative name into a complex olfactory experience. The perfume opens with a strong, cool lemony eau de cologne top note that is both refreshing and invigorating, providing a burst of citrus that is immediately striking. This vibrant opening transitions into a rich, heady floral heart, where the interplay of tobacco leaves with floral notes creates a distinctive and sophisticated character. The fragrance then settles into a dry, animalic base of tobacco leaf, which imparts a sense of depth and warmth, grounding the scent in a robust, sensual finish.
The late 1930s were a period of transition in the fragrance world, as the industry began to experiment with more diverse and innovative compositions. A Bientôt’s classification as a dry, floral tobacco fragrance for women was somewhat unconventional for its time, standing out with its bold blend of floral and tobacco elements. This scent reflects a trend towards more complex and daring fragrances, diverging from the more traditional and sweeter profiles that were common earlier in the decade. For women of the time, A Bientôt would have represented a sophisticated and modern choice, capturing the spirit of an era on the cusp of dramatic change in both fashion and fragrance.
