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For the launch of Tom Ford’s latest olfactory offering in the region, the rich smelling Velvet Orchid perfume, the local and international team decided to do something a little out of the ordinary. Calling upon Chandler Burr, the former and only scent critic for The New York Times, the brand invited a select group of media and VIPs to experience one of his famed scent dinners (past attendees have included Anna Wintour and Oprah Winfrey) at the One & Only Royal Mirage Dubai.

A concept created by fragrance expert Chandler, who has been a long-time collaborator with Tom Ford, the dinner features five distinctive food courses, each inspired by an aspect from the Tom Ford portfolio of perfumes. Alternating between food and fragrance under the watchful eye of chef Laurent Michel, the evening was a delight for all the senses. Beauty Editor Samantha reveals all…

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The scene is set with fresh white flowers and candlelight at Celebrities restaurant at the One & Only Royal Mirage Dubai.

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Flying in specifically for the event, an enthusiastic Chandler talks us through the inspiration behind the latest launch.

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Beauty Editor Samantha takes part in the ‘name that scent’ game that was played between each course.

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The first course was a divine lobster and celeriac capelletto with ginger cream dots, black truffle slice, and dark rum consommé – a nod to Tom’s best-selling scent, Black Orchid.

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Course number two consisted of poached salmon brick under cucumber and pink radish salad with bergamot gravlax sauce, chilled rosemary cream foam, and a lemon sorbet, which was inspired by the fresh Neroli Portofino perfume.

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The final fish dish of the evening complemented the notes in Jasmine Rouge, a roasted langoustine with double carrot mousseline on pineapple vinegar coulis.

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After a quick refresher course on the Tobacco Vanille perfume, we were treated to a seared duck fillet and braised duck ravioli in smoked honey and vinegar sauce, roasted vanilla pods, and a teacup of warm almond mousse.

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Last, but certainly not least, our olfactory adventure was brought to a close with a sweet meringue torte of mandarin and peach floating on dry ice with rum sauce, all of which was the culinary incarnation of the new Velvet Orchid bottle. Bon appetite!

The final reveal…

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A more feminine update from the classic Black Orchid perfume, Velvet Orchid features daring yet delicious notes of sandalwood, honey, rose and orange.

Tom Ford Velvet Orchid, Dhs445 | Available at Harvey Nichols