Malin + Goetz Candles: Unusual Scents

Over the holidays, we use a lot of candles. Between Hanukkah, our desire to have nicely dimmed lighting, and some really good pumpkin spice candles that definitely add to the festivities, we kept the wicks burning. And though we've seen a lot of things on these pages, one thing we haven't checked out often are candles. So, we contacted one of the higher-end brands of candles around, and are happy to report that there still are plenty of new things under the sun- even in a category as old as wax.

The local, NY-based Malin + Goetz offers a Cannabis Candle, rated for 60 hours of burn time, complete with classy packaging. We were a bit nervous when opening it- expecting a perhaps skunky smell- but there's nothing like that here. Instead, it's a remarkably fresh, woodsy, citrusy smell that is lively and instantly memorable. They describe it thus: "The candle begins with top notes of fresh lemon and orange, middle notes of fig and pepper, with a sophisticated base of oakmoss, sandlewood and
amber-patchouli." We concur.

We liked the sweetness and sexiness of it, and can't wait to try some of their other broad line of 'apothecary' goods- from perfumes to body washes and even their cute travel kits. The candle isn't inexpensive- $52 is a fairly high price- but it's a lovely, unique gift and perfect for a guy who doesn't like overly floral scents. Available online and in limited stores now.