Vanille Patchouli M. Micallef 2017

I discovered Vanilla Patchouli through a sample here from the Souk. I really appreciate subtle vanilla as a fragrance note, while I only like patchouli in a light, not so earthy-musty variant. Therefore, I certainly wouldn't count patchouli among my preferred fragrance notes, but the combination makes it work. For example, I also have Moonlight Patchouli or Fashion Decree in my collection, where patchouli harmonizes wonderfully and very pleasantly with rose.

Now here with vanilla. Vanilla can also tend to be overwhelmingly sweet or very artificial/synthetic. Or vanilla scents can come across as very one-dimensional. In the combination presented here with patchouli, a wonderful interplay has been achieved for my taste. The patchouli gives the fragrance more depth and substance and never becomes intrusive or syrupy-sweet.

The scent starts for me with a slightly sour mandarin and some spicy notes, which are quickly covered by a light veil of smoke. Then, quite soon, vanilla and patchouli make their appearances. The rather light patchouli tames the vanilla, which never comes across as truly sweet or even overpowering. As the scent develops, I also perceive a slightly woody background, which for me is truly a perfectly balanced combination!

Vanilla Patchouli is a wonderful companion in the winter season, it warms and envelops me like a soft scarf, both outside in the cold and inside on the sofa. In spring or summer, I probably won't reach for it - for me, this is clearly a winter fragrance with very decent longevity - and a beautiful bottle!