Versencia Noir

First Impressions & Dry Down

Versencia Noir opens with an unexpectedly sharp, almost acrid pepper note that eclipses the ginger and cardamom. Instead of a warm spice blend, the initial impression is closer to a freshly cracked black peppercorn grinder aimed directly at the nose. The heart attempts to emulate the tropical creaminess of coconut, but veers into a synthetic suntan lotion accord. Gardenia is present, though it lacks the indolic depth; instead, it’s a slightly soapy, diluted version. The drydown exhibits a dominant sandalwood note, but it's a pencil shavings rendition rather than a creamy Mysore. A vaguely sweet, almost saccharine amber emerges, interwoven with a clean, freshly laundered musk. Ultimately, it diverges from the original with the absence of a deep, dark, grounding earthy element, a key component from the DNA this emulates.

Projection Power

Longevity on skin is moderate, clocking in at around 5 hours. Projection is initially strong, extending to about an arm's length for the first hour, then quickly receding to a skin scent. Tested in an office setting; elicited no compliments and no negative feedback.

Is it Worth It?

This fragrance is best suited for cooler evenings in spring or early autumn. It is versatile enough for casual outings but lacks the sophistication for formal events. Due to its fleeting projection, it would perform optimally in a close-quarters environment, such as a date night or intimate gathering.