MacDuff's Kananaskis Explorer

MacDuff’s Soap Company is, I am given to understand, a small-batch grooming concern established in Edmonton, which is part of one of the colonies. The name derives, apparently, from the proprietor’s dog; a sound enough origin, and preferable to the strained mythology favoured by many modern firms. The soap before us, Kananaskis Explorer, takes its inspiration from Kananaskis Country in the foothills and ranges west of Calgary. I cannot claim acquaintance with that district in particular, though I have spent enough time outdoors to know when an attempt at woodland atmosphere has been honestly made.

The fragrance opens with conifer without vulgarity. Pine is present, certainly, yet not in the sharp and punitive manner of disinfectant. Juniper follows close behind, dry and resinous, giving the impression of cold air moving through trees rather than perfume applied from a bottle. One notices, after a moment, a softer undercurrent: something faintly sweet, suggestive of vanilla pod, warm timber, or bread set to cool in a nearby lodge kitchen. This prevents the composition from becoming severe.

The scent remains recognisably natural while still being agreeable in close quarters, which is no small achievement. It calls less to mind theatrical lumberjacks than a sensible walk undertaken in proper boots.

Used in the morning, it produces the agreeable fancy that one ought to spend the day in the open air rather than at correspondence. That, for a shaving soap, is recommendation enough.