And so we find ourselves at the end of another incredible year of exciting perfume releases, where variety has most definitely been the scented key word. Amber fragrances proved to be very popular this year, with quite a few new ones vying for the crown, but there were also an array of new brands that each brought with them unique philosophies as well as some really innovative processes. So, as we approach the end of 2025, it’s time to once again look back at twelve months of reviews on stephanmatthews.com and, by channelling my inner Blyton as usual at this time of the year, pick My Favourite Five.
The United Kingdom and Ireland has, between them, the most standing stones and stone circles in the world. However, with Scotland and Cornwall featuring high in the listings, there’s clearly a Celtic thread. The meaning of them has become lost over the centuries, with popular theories being markers or ceremonial spaces, but one thing is clear about them all - they all have an energy and a connection with the past that is palpable. The vibrations that many pick up on are said to be the energies of past gatherings and occurrences, whether that be peaceful or otherwise, and this is perfectly realised in the new perfume Spirit from Vallense.
