I am reviewing both of these Votivo candles in one post because they are both in the same smaller travel-tin size. I like the travel tins; I think that they’re a great size for sampling because they burn more quickly than a standard Votivo candle but are large enough that you can get a really good sense of the candle’s scent and throw. The silvery tins are a little thin/disposable, but the classic Votivo box labels are a good touch.
I actually had a little pitting with my Lavender Chamomile Pear candle, but that was more my mismanagement (the first two times I burned the candle I didn’t let it go long enough). There were no performance issues beyond this. As for the scent, those who are into aromatherapy know that lavender and chamomile are both used to help people sleep (the Sleepytime tea I used to buy at the grocery store was a chamomile blend). I didn’t burn the candle at night (safety thing–I don’t want to even risk falling asleep), but this candle certain does create a quiet, cozy atmosphere. I think that people who like aromatherapy might consider this candle, so long as they light it while getting ready to sleep and then put out the flame before going to bed. Lavender is the strongest note in the candle; the chamomile proves a background fuzziness (the Votivo scent description says that this is a sharper chamomile note, but I don’t think it’s all that different–this really does smell a lot like my chamomile tea). Maybe that slightly sharper chamomile is what gives the candle a slight lemony smell. I don’t pick up on the pear much at all, but pear’s not really a super-strong fruity note anyway. This is another solid entry from Votivo.
3.5/5
I was very impressed with the Black Ginger candle–great performance in the tin and fantastic throw. The base of this candle is warm leather–if I could see this leather it would be a camel/tan saddle that always smelled a little of saddle soap. As a former competitive horseback rider, this is a comfort scent! The middle of this scent is an ambient spicy blend and the ginger–lovely and fresh–comes out on top. The ginger has great carry–when I am in the other room that is the note that is easiest to smell; the leather is more prominent up close, but in general the two layers blend together nicely and every now and again I pick up a bit of undifferentiated spice. This is a great, neutral utility candle and I would recommend it highly for those who are looking for a clean leather scented candle.
3.5/5
