The fragrances that appeal most to me often invite me to slow down to appreciate their nuances and qualities. Der Duft Playground is one of those perfumes.
Maybe because of its name, I was expecting this 2025 release from the German brand and its founder, Anselm Skogstad, to be noisier and more obviously attention-grabbing. (Note to self: don’t be so literal, Richard. In this case, “the playground” – and the inspiration of freedom it brings – is in the mind.)
And come to think of it, other releases I’ve tried from the house have also been distinctive but discreet. Not a contradiction. Actually, a compliment.
Der Duft Playground starts out grassy to me. Interesting that the official note from the Der Duft website for this is honeydew melon, for which Google AI Overview tells me “some people also perceive a subtle, grassy undertone”. Bergamot adds to the freshness with its citric tones.
Soft fruity-aquatics mingle with the optimistic white floracly of tiaré and jasmine, while lily-of-the-valley imparts cleanliness. The synthetic Cashmeran (listed here as “cashmere wood”) often proclaims its fuzzy presence, but here it’s more about its subtle contribution to the warmth of a modern amber accord, with musks in support.
Apart from the initial grassiness, none of these afore-mentioned notes jumps out and says, “Look and smell me!” They blend in a way to create a whole that’s all quite gentle and soothing.
‘I’m happy to go with the more low-key version I’m getting in our still-quite-warm autumn’
I suspect Der Duft Playground will ping more in the heat of peak Johannesburg summer. But for now, I’m happy to go with the more low-key version I’m getting in our still-quite-warm autumn.
From the name (“the scent” in German) to the bottle, packaging and website description, The Der Duft aesthetic is minimalist. But that doesn’t mean I’m not getting much enjoyment from this fragrance, especially at bedtime.
Buy Der Duft Playground from the Der Duft website. Read my 2021 Anselm Skogstad interview here.
Nice overview, Richard. I’m not familiar with Der Duft, but your write up has piqued my interest. Perhaps the grassy undertone stems from the blend of the musty aroma of cashmere wood (Cashmeran) and the sweetness of honeydew melon.
Richard, what a refreshing review. Liked the interview with Anselm Skogstad. Andre :-)))
Thanks for the writeup, Rich. Love the shots. I should see if I can sample this brand.
I think your photos of Der Duft Playground evoke its simplicity as much as your descriptions. 🙂 This sounds like one to enjoy away from the noise of other people and their competing fragrances.