Montale

I have never been very fond of Montale because when I first met them, everything was oud, oud and more oud. When I visit their counter, it is often for a whimsical purpose like smelling something unashamedly sweet and fruity at unashamedly expensive prices. Orange Flowers, however, is in a different category for me, I really appreciate it as a citrus oriental. I prefers sweet citrus notes to sharper and refreshing ones and I think citruses really enliven orientals that can otherwise smell too tired on me. This Montale offers just the right balance. It opens with mandarin which is naturally sweet but not candied. I can quickly sense the spices but it is again balanced and well-blended, that is, I don't start smelling like a house candle. I quite enjoy the florals at the heart. Both jasmine and ylang-ylang smell airy and natural to my nose, within the character of the genre of course. The heart is also recognizably honeyed on my skin, but there is nothing suffocating. In this sense, Orange Flowers smells lighter than heady honey-cognac orientals and I also appreciate the crushed citrus leaf whiffs I get from time to time. All is really balanced and well-blended. I am also glad that the base does not become stale and soapy on my skin. I have been complimented on the nice trail I leave with this one. I think I would prefer Serge Lutens to this if the latter were not a mess on my skin. It is louder, brighter, more neon but also more exciting. And again, I think I prefer Tauer to both because of the burnt orange note and the genius complexity but that one is not as reliable or safe as this. Shall I commit to a full bottle one day? No. This is because I like rotating perfumes and don't see myself visiting this often. And I would have so many other options at this price range. Still, it is worth a try if you like orientals and want a safe, well-balanced one. Good sillage and lasting power. 3.5 points.

Sillage and longevity are great! All day on my skin! It’s a cold rose, on the ice of the world ???? ???? Best rose parfum ever ❤️

Notes from Fragrantica: Top note is floral notes; middle notes are coffee and rose; base notes are amber, vanila and white musk. Mmmm...finally a Montale that I really love!! This is a warm and cozy rose and coffee scent, one in which I can actually smell the coffee note! (So many claim it's there and my nose just can't find it, but not the case with this one!!) The amber and musk give this a beautiful base, and the rose note stays strong throughout---a lush, red, sweet rose--no hint of green. The coffee is sweetened by the vanilla note, and although the note matrix doesn't show it, I feel there is a hint of oud in there, especially in the opening. With so many Montales just not working for me, I am pleased this one is so enjoyable. Definitely full bottle worthy.