Nez #2: le Propre et le Sale

Published twice a year, Nez explores the world around us via our sense of smell. It provides an insight into the vital role that olfactory sensations play in our lives in a novel approach that encompasses art, literature, science, history, food, and perfume. While a large proportion of each issue is obviously given over to fragrance and perfumery, the relationship between scent and taste is inescapably part of the magazine as well.

Issue #2 is available solely in French. It includes an exploration of oenology from the perspective of a perfumer: “The pleasures of a perfume can last for hours, even days. With a wine, we often stop—wrongly—after just a few minutes.” In his view, the language of wine has not yet evolved to match the depth of the language of perfume. The titular essay addresses our subtle and not-so-subtle reactions to strong and challenging odors, on ourselves, in our environment, and in our food. The analysis highlights the role of compounds (mainly sulfur and nitrogen) and other odorant molecules (such as aldehydes, fatty acids and benzene derivatives) in prompting our noses to react in delight or repulsion.

Handsomely designed with full color throughout. Paperback. This issue is in French only.