Luminous Sahara

The opening is bright for a moment, with bergamot and orange blossom, before cardamom and cinnamon bring a hot, crackling heat. The heart is thick with bourbon vanilla, given a balsamic edge by elemi. In the base, praline and caramelized almond sit on tonka beans and musk, while ambroxan and guaiac wood add a smooth, dark woodiness.

Rated at eight to twelve hours, it lasts from an early dinner well into the night. Its rich, warm character belongs to autumn and winter, and to evening wear above all: date nights, parties and special occasions. Use a light hand, as two or three sprays are plenty for a trail that stays with you.