Catherine Laskine-Balandina has opened a chic destination in the Antiquaires district, where tea tastings blend with the allure of fine fragrances.
It is an elegant spot, the kind Versailles prides itself on hiding away. "An exceptional place," according to Catherine Laskine-Balandina, founder of the French perfume house STATE OF MIND, who has opened this Olfactory Tea Room in the historic heart of Versailles. This concept, dubbed the "Factory Tea Room," is nestled within a charming cobblestone courtyard in the Antiquaires district.
Open seven days a week — even on this Bastille Day — the venue promises a true "sensory experience." "We begin by scenting the tea from its tin to immerse oneself in a spirit of generosity. Then, we pair it with the aura of our perfumes," explains Catherine Laskine-Balandina, who never hesitates to unfold a scented fan of delicate fragrances right before your nose.
## Three-hour tasting "ceremonies"
Once settled into a comfortable armchair and lulled by music in an Art Deco setting with matching furnishings, the guest can surrender to the experience while savoring one of the many tea vintages crafted by Olivier Scala. This creator is none other than the CEO of Georges Cannon, a tea importer based in Trappes. He was assisted by Karine Dubreuil, a renowned "nose" from Grasse (Alpes-Maritimes), the mecca of French expertise in the field. The two drew mutual inspiration from one another.
The creators of the STATE OF MIND brand have conceived eleven "states of mind" expressed across perfumes, teas, candles, and silk scarves. In keeping with this salon spirit, Catherine Laskine-Balandina also hosts tea and perfume "ceremonies" every Wednesday, lasting… three hours. "It is like a play — you must not be late," whispers the hostess, who requests prior registration to participate*.
The experience is undeniably tempting, though not for every budget: a 100g tin of tea is priced at 39 euros, with a refill at 28 euros. As for the perfumes, presented in exquisite cases, the prices reach even more stratospheric heights.
STATE OF MIND Salon, 5 rue du Bailliage, Versailles. Open daily, 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM.
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