Mandarine Widian 2025

After this release was hyped a bit shortly after the launch of this fragrance, I had to test it as well. Fruity scents in summer are totally my thing, especially juicy fruity scents like orange, mandarin, etc. Following the mega-success of "Ginger | Widian / AJ Arabia" from the same Rose-Arabia line, everyone was eagerly watching this mandarin release. To start with this mandarin, it can be said: This is more like a cologne, as this scent naturally does not last long. There is no real synthetic element that significantly extends this creation, and thus this fragrance remains quite authentic throughout its duration. For €175/100ml, of course, it’s not for everyone to pay such a price for a freshness kick. Even though I won’t buy it: This wonderful mandarin scent still deserves a review, as this top note truly possesses a lovely, cheerful aura with these great fruity notes. However, it will not be able to match the success of Ginger, as the overall package is not necessarily that great due to its performance.

The Rose Arabia line is really good, and the prices are relatively fair for niche standards. The Ginger is a bit harder to find as it is often sold out in many shops. This mandarin is, of course, more readily available and does not have such a huge hype, but it is also not a shelf warmer.
The packaging and bottles of this line are really pretty with this great look and the boxes. Very stylish and great for any collection. This fragrance is available exclusively in 100ml, which is great for fresh scents, as you can use them more often and they are also well-suited for everyday use.
I have smelled many fruity scents with mandarin across all price ranges. I really like them, and they are a delight in the heat of summer. The scent itself can convince me, but regarding performance, it’s rather lacking. Nevertheless, one should take a look at the fragrance: It starts with a lot of mandarin, slightly greenish-bitter, and also has those peel vibes that smell so good. The mandarin already smells like pure summer, and fig and lemon are added. The fig adds beautiful juicy fruity notes and has slight southern European vibes. There is also a very subtle spiciness that blends into this creation, but it doesn’t clash and is rather delicate in the background. Additionally, there’s a slightly sparkling neroli, which gives a lively freshness. I don’t perceive rose geranium and juniper very strongly, but they could play a part. After 1-2 hours, this fragrance becomes quite weak, so you have to smell closely at the sprayed spot. Thus, the base of labdanum and cedarwood is rather weak. The cedarwood note is still clearly recognizable and gives this fragrance soft woody notes. Other than that, that’s it with this brief pleasure. Overall, it’s a unisex fragrance for everyone, regardless of gender and age. Anyone using this fragrance should be a re-sprayer or just looking for a quick freshness kick.
Performance, as mentioned, is very subtle. Longevity, including close-to-skin notes, should be around 3-4 hours, and sillage is probably present for about 1-2 hours.

In conclusion, I can say: For this performance, it’s a bit too expensive for me. Those looking for an authentic mandarin scent could find what they’re looking for here. It smells very natural, but the competition is not sleeping.

One must not make the mistake of comparing light citrus scents with heavy spice and vanilla bombs. In that comparison, the light ones clearly lose. But no one would think to compare champagne and heavy Bordeaux, especially if one prefers red wine.
The house of Widian already stands for high quality in their products and has established itself quite well over the past few years. The new fragrance "Mandarine" starts with a mandarin that is simply enchanting, very naturally fruity, not bitter, not too sweet. This opening is addictive, but it also has the clear disadvantage that it cannot last. One knows this but does not want to admit it. As the fragrance develops, not much happens; I notice nothing of cardamom and juniper, even less of labdanum and cedar, these components are present in homeopathic doses. Rather, one receives a nice, slightly herbal freshness, with a hint of pink pepper. A scent that never becomes too much, especially on hot days. But I must be honest, I too am disappointed by the really very short longevity. After just 1 hour, the magic is over, one has to reapply, and then the dance begins anew. So, do not expect what cannot be fulfilled! Quality is present, but it is very quickly gone. Like a glass of champagne, which is also empty quite quickly. But both are luxury, and that is not always lasting.

My expectations for the Mandarin were already set quite high, especially since Widian had recently released a personal masterpiece for me with "Ginger | Widian / AJ Arabia." The "Rose Arabia" collection is particularly interesting to me as it demands a "fair" price for what one ultimately receives, in my opinion.
The top note does not actually begin with a classic mandarin note but rather green notes take center stage, along with something herbal (not clearly definable). After some time, a floral aspect emerges, but it still seems to remain more in the background compared to the green notes and is by no means as present as the top note. I had hoped that labdanum and cedarwood would give the fragrance some depth and longevity in the base... unfortunately, this is not the case.
Thus, my conclusion is somewhat ambivalent.
On one hand, I find the scent interesting and really beautiful, which, in my perception, develops more in a feminine direction. On the other hand, I am looking for a solution to improve the H/S a bit and to enjoy my girlfriend's current favorite scent longer throughout the day. (H/S is significantly better on her skin than on mine, it's fascinating how strong the differences are).