Bal Musque by Nez a Nez

Bergamot, Orange, Magnolia, Cherry, Licorice, Ylang Ylang, Rose, Cinnamon, Musk, Benzoin, Vanilla, Tolu Balsam.

The fragrance description on LuckyScent made me wince a little. Some promo departments embellish a bit too much, but it all boils down to whether or not the scent is legitimate. I don't purchase fragrances because a house utilizes heavy handed words and some fluff.

Bal Musque is categorized as "shared", but after a few wearings, I'm inclined to believe it's more suited for the feminine persuasion. The base and drydown is a balsamic powder and vanilla and while pleasant, it leans too far for me to consider wearing it. Bal Musque's price point is over $1.50 per ml., but I've surely smelled pricier fragrances that gave less.

The opening of this fragrance is enjoyable with its implementation of citrus, subtle cherry and blurred florals. It takes a few minutes for the floral notes to come into focus, but they don't remain that way long. Spice and balsam start working their way into the progression and take the reigns.

After 10 minutes or so, Bal Musque has morphed into what it is destined to become. Vanilla is the rising force and uses its gravity to capture a few of the other players in its orbit. Spice and balsam are now its satellites and the small galaxy is now complete. The musk is tuned too low for me to appreciate.

Bal Musque is a pleasant and spicy, powdery vanilla that I have enjoyed, but won't wear. I would like to smell it on a woman in close proximity however. Sillage is good and longevity is 6 hours plus on me. A positive-neutral rating from Aromi for Nez a Nez and their release of Bal Musque. As always, a sample wear is highly recommended.