Spice & Black Vanilla

The Verdict

This fragrance is best suited for the colder months, specifically autumn and early winter evenings. The scent profile leans towards casual settings and might be appropriate for a laid-back gathering, but it lacks the sophistication for formal events.

Scent Breakdown

The opening presents a brisk caraway note, surprisingly prominent, intertwined with a rough, almost grating black pepper accord. The saffron is present, but lacks the luxurious leather undertones of the inspiration, instead manifesting as a slightly medicinal, iodine-like nuance. The heart unveils a boozy bourbon vanilla, yet it veers into artificial territory, evoking a cheap vanilla extract instead of aged bourbon. The cinnamon is subdued, almost fleeting. The tobacco accord is noticeable, but is reminiscent of dry, unflavored pipe tobacco instead of the rich, syrupy sweetness present in Spicebomb Extreme. The base amplifies the dry tobacco with an unwelcome addition of an almost musty, stale lavender, creating a somewhat discordant finish. It diverges considerably from its muse, lacking the latter's depth and cohesive sweetness.

How Long Does it Last?

Longevity clocks in at approximately 5 hours on skin, with a noticeable decline after the initial 2-hour mark. Projection is moderate, extending to about one arm's length for the first hour, then settling closer to the skin. Tested in both indoor and outdoor environments, it performed best in controlled, cooler settings.