Perfume Review: Vaniglia by Santa Maria Novella
Santa Maria Novella is one of the world’s oldest pharmacies, located in Florence, Italy. Its products are marked by the use of the highest quality natural ingredients in the tradition of its founders. (For more information on the line, please watch this fascinating video). I must say I’m only superficially familiar with the line, and just recently have become more interested in giving their fragrances a proper test. Initially, the ones I tried fell into the category of scents I appreciate for composition only as opposed to both composition and wearibility. As is often the case with me, I come back to the dismissed ones with completely new perception and end up falling head over heels. Such fate befell Vaniglia.
A few weeks ago I wrote about my personal classification of vanilla fragrances. Based on that, Vaniglia falls into the complex vanilla category. It’s not really vanilla the way you know it. Before I go into a more detailed description (short as it may be), I’ll just say it reminds me a lot of Latvian made liqueur - by that I mean these drinks. They’re characterized by a syrupy consistency and rich, dessert-like flavor. Oddly enough, I don’t find Vaniglia particularly gourmand. It does, however, possess this syrupy, boozy quality that immediately makes me think of liqueur. As for the smell, I don’t know the official notes, unfortunately. What I get is a lush, aromatic vanilla with a slight resinous/smoky undertone. It lasts for hours and is ideal for this gloomy fall weather. I simply adore and highly recommend it!
Vaniglia is available at Aedes and Lafcony.
Image source: www.aedes.com
14 comments October 4th, 2006