Dulcemio

Vanille Intense is only my second foray into Les Parfums de Nicolai, the first being Le Temps d'Une Fete, and while two of anything can rarely serve as a representative sample, I have noticed they both share a certain floral wholesomeness that lasts through top, middle and base, despite the fact that one is classifed a green floral and the other a vanillic oriental.

For certain dyed-in-the-wool green floral fanatics, I think Vanille Intense might make a nice departure into vanilla-centric orientals, simply because it does have such a strong floral undertone, and a complex enough development to make the vanilla-averse take a second sniff, and say, "Hmmmm, vanilla you say? And it doesn't smell like a bakery!"

I find classic florals, such as Moschino by Moschino, more to my liking than the most current floral releases.

Why? Because of all the reasons so eloquently stated by the previous reviewers. It's a perfume's perfume, with a richness, depth and maturity that recall a bygone era when mainstream perfumes weren't afraid to make a statement.

Those aren't words you usually see together, are they? In any case, I am surprised to be using them to describe a perfume I enjoy as much as Ambre Precieux, a perfume that, simply put, reminds me of old-timey men's cologne. (Is that due to the lavender/nutmeg combination? I have so much to learn!)

It projects well with just a few sprays and lasts all day. It has quickly become one of my many "comfort" scents.

If you find original Opium intriguing but intimidating, this might be the version for you. It seems to remain true to the original notes and composition, with the same strong projection and longevity, but is simply much lighter and less aggressive.