Kayali: Vanilla Royale Sugared Patchouli 64

Having reviewed the previous Kayali vanilla addition (28), this is the 'upgraded, decadent and intense gourmand' released in 2022. This is relatively similar to Vanilla (28), with the same base. 

The product is described as : 

With an enhanced blend of exotic florals, rich spices, and dark, decadent notes, the eleventh fragrance in the Kayali collection, Vanilla Royale Sugared Patchouli | 64 unites contrasting textures: gourmand indulgence with rich sensuality for an intense new level of sophistication. As a new member of the Kayali vanilla family, this complex explosion of sweet vanilla mixed with sugared patchouli will be the crown jewel in every vanilla lovers collection.

"For the opening of Vanilla Royale Sugared Patchouli | 64, the elegant and warm vanilla orchid and creamy jasmine unite with golden rum for an intoxicating intensity. In the heart of the fragrance, vanilla infusion, vanilla surabsolute, and crème brulée create an overload of sweet, gourmand sensations while nuances of almond, tobacco, and caramel from the tonka bean bring an intense level of irresistibility. Powerful yet delicate, the spicy rose bouquet, along with smoky leather, creates an intriguing signature that is raw and velvety yet distinctively refined. Earthy with woody and camphorous facets, sugared patchouli glistens with sparkling sweetness while toasted tones of brown sugar further enhance the dark, decadent richness. The amber brings glowing intrigue to the exotic royal oud woven throughout the fragrance to enhance the dry down further. Finally, a tender trace of creamy musk creates a scent uniquely contrasted by soft sensuality and deep, luxurious richness."

Top Notes: Vanilla Orchid, Creamy Jasmine, Golden Rum

Middle Notes: Vanilla Infusion, Vanilla Surabsolute, Tonka Bean Accord, Spicy Rose Bouquet, Smoky Leather, Crème Brulée

Base Notes: Sugared Patchouli, Musk, Brown Sugar, Amber, Royal Oud

There's this thing that happens with abstract perfumery from mainstream/designer brands, and that is, there will be a scent they make, and despite the smell just smelling like 'perfume', they're insistent on the multifaceted, complex nature of what is essentially, just one thing. This one thing, is sugared patchouli. This is just, a deep, heady whiff of rich, dark green patchouli, with a heaping of musky vanilla extract. I do get hints of oud very very briefly, but it's hard to pick out anything that isn't just an overindulgence of patchouli. I think as a scent, this is a really accurate depiction of sugared patchouli, but I can't help but resent it for all its superfluous descriptions like, where is the creme brulee?? where is the brown sugar?? While I don't often mind patchouli, I resent musk, and with this scent having some of the most intense throw, projection and wear time on a scent (this clung on for WEEKS on a tester stick), this is a combination that can stay in the department store. If all goes well, I'll never have to try this again.