Nicholas II

Its character comes from the friction between two equally strong materials. Mandarin orange brings a bright citrus snap, while pear adds soft, juicy fruit rather than sharp sourness. Jasmine and jasmine sambac introduce a clean white-floral presence, balanced by the rounded elegance of peony and rose. Beneath that sits a powdery base of orris root, then amber and benzoin add warmth and sweetness. Nothing here is solitary or showy. The composition works through contrast: fruit against petals, powder against warmth, brightness against a soft amber finish.

The evolution

The first impression is clear and lively, with mandarin orange and pear lending the fragrance a polished, fruity brightness. Jasmine appears early too, bringing a floral impression into the opening. As the composition settles, jasmine sambac, peony, and rose create a fuller floral character, while the fruit remains present alongside the petals. Later, orris root brings a cool, powdered texture while amber and benzoin warm the composition from beneath. By the drydown, it feels softer, sweeter, and more enveloping, yet never heavy. One review indicates that after three to four hours, the fragrance is only close to the skin, so its later presence is intimate rather than expansive.