Austin’s Justine’s Brasserie Launches Bastille No. 12 Fragrance
Inspired by candlelit dinners and champagne-soaked conversations, this Austin-made fragrance distills the essence of Justine’s late-night allure into a single, unforgettable bottle
If you’ve ever wandered into Justine’s Brasserie in East Austin, you’ll know it’s a charming sanctuary that exudes Parisian romance. Picture an enchanting late-night atmosphere filled with soft lighting, lively conversation and the clink of champagne glasses. This is a place where decadent cuisine delights the palate, and mingling with friends and lovers creates unforgettable memories that last well beyond midnight. Justine’s captures a cinematic allure that lingers long after you leave — a feeling that co-owner Justine Gilcrease sought to bottle and share.
A Celebration Bottled
For Justine’s Brasserie’s 12th annual Bastille Day celebration in July, the team decided to introduce something unexpected at their fête: a custom fragrance, Bastille No. 12. It is the result of a whirlwind collaboration between Gilcrease and perfumer Crystal Davidson, founder of Libertine, an Austin-based apothecary and perfumery. Initially bottled for guests of their summer celebration, the perfume is now available for purchase on Libertine’s website or found in a charming antique case at the restaurant.
Notes of Romance
The fragrance brief was specific yet evocative. “The highlights of the concept were rose and tobacco, plus saffron, cocoa, musk, black pepper and cardamom,” Davidson says. “Things that could come from the kitchen or the bar, in addition to the rose and tobacco. It was already a very good concept.”
In what felt both quick and effortless, Davidson blended the formula for the celebration. “To get the right quantities, it can take a while, but this one felt like magic,” she says. “Originally it was just a limited edition for that party, but everyone loved it so much.”
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Meet the Perfumer
Davidson, a community herbalist and wellness consultant with over 20 years of experience, blends her knowledge of Western herbalism, aromatherapy, astrology and other holistic practices into her work. Her passion evolved into her botanical perfumery, Libertine, where she merges her love of plants with the art of creating fragrances.
“Crystal did a beautiful job capturing our wild ideas,” says Gilcrease, noting how much she loves how local businesses support each other in the Austin community. “We adore collaboration. Every time we can work with local artists, we do. Our whole circle of friends is amazingly talented. We’ve collaborated with designers, artists and even former dishwashers who are now successful artists. It’s like a community of creativity.”
Collaboration comes easily to Davidson, who creates custom fragrances for individuals, companies and events. “I also teach workshops and blending sessions. Sometimes people come to blend their own fragrance, and I incorporate their aesthetic.”
When asked how the fragrance should make people feel, Gilcrease doesn’t hesitate: “Sexy. Romantic. Sensual. Hungry.”
Bastille No. 12 is an opulent, fleeting reminder of nights that linger long after they’re gone.