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Helpful Review
Alexandria Orientale - the "Niche"
The Alexandria family at Xerjoff is quite large, as is well known. There is the legendary Alexandria I, which is probably one of the least smelled by many. Then there is the "Crowd Pleaser" Alexandria II and the "Rose King" Alexandria III. The family is completed by the exclusive Imperiale and the "released" Alexandria Orientale, which is the focus here.
The Orientale starts with an intense Oud note - probably the reason for its name - paired with apple and a good portion of incense. I also perceive a prominent coriander note almost throughout. The rose plays a subordinate role compared to Alexandria II and especially III, but is still detectable.
As time goes on, the initial Oud spectacle recedes and the fragrance becomes sweeter and slightly powdery. This is likely due to the combination of iris, amber, and vanilla. After several hours - we are talking about 10 hours plus - the scent fades very fresh.
My highlight and the reason why I treated myself to a 50ml bottle is that the Alexandria Orientale, despite its sweetness in the drydown, never becomes too heavy. It always remains airy and yet has power! It approaches its brothers, but without losing its individuality.
In contrast to Alexandria II and III, I find it more challenging, and it can be somewhat overwhelming for untrained noses, especially in the first few minutes. This aspect is what draws me to niche fragrances!
The quality is very good, as is typical for Xerjoff. How much real Oud is actually used leaves room for discussion. I dare say that the Bortnikoffs, Areejs, and Ensars of this world still take it up a notch, which is also reflected in the price. Overall, you can definitely smell the excellent quality in the Alexandria Orientale!
The longevity is very good, although interestingly, compared to other longevity monsters, I am not overwhelmed. I perceive it from time to time, but I do not constantly smell the Orientale on me.
The sillage is more subdued than with its brothers, which I appreciate!
The versatility of use is quite broad, although I personally spray the Orientale mostly in the evenings during leisure time or for going out. As a daytime and especially office scent, it is a bit too niche for me! Since it always remains airy, it can definitely be worn in spring and late summer. In my opinion, it shines particularly in winter and autumn.
In conclusion, I would say that I consider the Orientale to be the most special Alexandria. The one that dances a bit out of line and does not have to please everyone. A niche fragrance to fall in love with....
The Orientale starts with an intense Oud note - probably the reason for its name - paired with apple and a good portion of incense. I also perceive a prominent coriander note almost throughout. The rose plays a subordinate role compared to Alexandria II and especially III, but is still detectable.
As time goes on, the initial Oud spectacle recedes and the fragrance becomes sweeter and slightly powdery. This is likely due to the combination of iris, amber, and vanilla. After several hours - we are talking about 10 hours plus - the scent fades very fresh.
My highlight and the reason why I treated myself to a 50ml bottle is that the Alexandria Orientale, despite its sweetness in the drydown, never becomes too heavy. It always remains airy and yet has power! It approaches its brothers, but without losing its individuality.
In contrast to Alexandria II and III, I find it more challenging, and it can be somewhat overwhelming for untrained noses, especially in the first few minutes. This aspect is what draws me to niche fragrances!
The quality is very good, as is typical for Xerjoff. How much real Oud is actually used leaves room for discussion. I dare say that the Bortnikoffs, Areejs, and Ensars of this world still take it up a notch, which is also reflected in the price. Overall, you can definitely smell the excellent quality in the Alexandria Orientale!
The longevity is very good, although interestingly, compared to other longevity monsters, I am not overwhelmed. I perceive it from time to time, but I do not constantly smell the Orientale on me.
The sillage is more subdued than with its brothers, which I appreciate!
The versatility of use is quite broad, although I personally spray the Orientale mostly in the evenings during leisure time or for going out. As a daytime and especially office scent, it is a bit too niche for me! Since it always remains airy, it can definitely be worn in spring and late summer. In my opinion, it shines particularly in winter and autumn.
In conclusion, I would say that I consider the Orientale to be the most special Alexandria. The one that dances a bit out of line and does not have to please everyone. A niche fragrance to fall in love with....
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