XV

The interesting part is the balance between heat and polish. Cinnamon and saffron bring a taut, spiced opening, but red berries and rose stop the composition from becoming purely resinous. Star anise adds a clean, aromatic edge, almost like a pinch of aniseed after the fruit. Down below, sandalwood gives the sweetness a smooth surface to rest on, while benzoin deepens the warmth without making the composition feel heavy. The result is familiar materials arranged with a certain restraint. Floral, fruity, spicy, woody, and softly powdery all share the same frame.

The evolution

At first, XV lands as a bright pairing of saffron and cinnamon. The saffron keeps the opening lifted, while cinnamon brings a dry, warming heat that makes the scent feel immediately more grounded. Red berries enter soon after, adding a red, fruity pulse, and rose gives the middle its polished floral center. Star anise adds a distinctive aromatic snap, preventing the sweetness from becoming syrupy. As the fragrance settles, sandalwood starts to matter. The rose softens, the fruit becomes less obvious, and benzoin leaves a warm, sweet resinous trail. The final impression is close and smooth, with the spice still hovering underneath rather than disappearing. It remains present through a workday, then leaves a softer woody memory on skin.