Season 8 • Episode 8: Five Favourite Vanillas
Okay, we all know vanilla has been trending for ages now, but WHY does it prove so popular? Perhaps half the reason is the sheer diversity of vanillas available, and the incredibly high-quality materials perfumers are able to use these days. Plus the fact that vanilla continues to be one of the most universally adored smells.
Love or loathe vanilla fragrances, your podcast hosts Suzy Nightingale and Nicola Bonn feel sure there’s truly a vanilla for every taste (and maybe some that will surprise or even shock you) in this week’s episode...
Now, obviously, they had to choose five favourites each, because they couldn’t possibly contain them all to only five vanillas between them – not when there are SO many excellent varieties of vanilla fragrances around these days.
But hey, if you’re a vanilla naysayer, please don’t shy away from this episode, as they feature versions that segue from scents that have just-launched and are fabulously tobacco-filled, through the sweetly tempting and addictive, to the mind-blowingly modern and unlike any vanilla you’ve ever smelled.
Encompassing hip-swivelling seduction, a stunning high street body butter, hugely powerful fragrant talismans, and summery every-day wearability, there’s also a truly affordable modern classic vanilla – created by a Master Perfumer who trained at Chanel, created scents for Frederic Malle, Guerlain, Gucci, Amouage and Atkinsons; but THIS one can be snapped up for under £32!
While some of their top vanillas crossed over, Suzy and Nicola also surprised each other with some of their choices. Now then, which have YOU tried or want to go and smell after listening...?
They discuss:
D’Orsay Vanilla Affair Extrait
By Nathalie Lorson
‘Immerse yourself in the captivating mystique of D’ORSAY, with Vanilla Affair extrait de parfum transforming your everyday allure into one of intriguing elegance.
Its scent – reminiscent of forbidden encounters and fierce passion – is infused with riveting notes of tobacco and tonka bean, deepened with a vanilla duo, and grounded with a smoky base of white musks and patchouli. No matter the occasion, its aromatic blend of exhilarating notes will elevate your essence with ease.’
The Body Shop Vanilla Body Butter
‘This indulgent cream melts in beautifully, delivering up to 96 hours of hydration without greasiness. Skin feels instantly softer, smoother and cared for. The fragrance opens with juicy nashi pear and fresh coconut water, lifted by mood orchid. At its heart, rich Madagascar vanilla tincture blends with upcycled vanillin ex rice, creamy milk and heliotrope for a smooth, enveloping warmth. It settles into a sensual base of vanilla absolute, sandalwood and second skin musk for a long lasting, skin hugging finish. Every application is a warm, comforting routine.’
‘This perfume’s sweet promises echo around your like languorous kisses.
Crafted by independent perfumer Vanina Murraciole, Fire at Will eau de parfum from JOVOY explores the duality of vanilla and mimosa – at once intense yet subtle, seductive yet enchanting. The opening reveals an unexpected vanilla: airy and ethereal, lifted by honeyed, powdery mimosa. As it evolves, the vanilla becomes more gourmand and fruity, evoking the delicacy of real vanilla ice cream while lingering with the allure of whispered promises.’
Top Notes: mimosa absolut, vanilla absolut
Middle Notes: vanilla sugar, brown sugar
Base Notes: white musks, amber, vetiver
Maison Louis Marie No.15 Vanille Infinie
‘Vanille Infinie, a luxurious and sweet gourmand, is a celebration of hope and renewal. No.15 Vanille Infinie unfolds as a warm, luminous composition, soft vanilla layered with citron, sugared amber and cashmere oud for gentle resinous warmth. The Eau de Parfum evolves naturally on skin, shifting with your body heat to reveal a smooth, enveloping trail that feels both intimate and enduring.’
‘For François Hénin, the founder of Jeroboam, vanilla has always been the absolute weapon of seductive souls. The ingredient is recognised throughout the world as an irresistible enticement to be devoured. Insulo (meaning ‘island’ in Esperanto) is used in this case as a code name for Madagascar, the island which produces perhaps the highest quality and most famous vanilla in the world.
The olfactive pyramid of Insulo is incredibly simple with vanilla at the top, jasmine at the heart and the signature blend of enigmatic musks at the base. These few notes combine to produce a luxurious and irresistible.’
‘Bake is our addictive cupcake fragrance.
Everyone has their own favourite sweet treat, and for Akro, it's the small, but perfectly delicious lemon cupcake—an item we just can’t resist any time we walk past a good bakery. To honour our favourite cupcakes, we created BAKE, a gourmand fragrance made up of Tart Lemon notes, followed by sweet Vanilla and rich, nutty Praline. BAKE is so good, you might not need that second cupcake after all.
Top Notes: lemon peel
Middle Notes: chantilly cream, praline
Base Notes: brown sugar, vanilla.’
Matiere Premiere Vanilla Powder eau de parfum
‘A sophisticated take on vanilla, diffusing like a bright, soft cloud. I contrasted dark vanilla absolute with an overdose of modern white perfumer powders — as if the vanilla bean had been painted white.
Palo Santo Oil Ecuador brings structure and verticality. The addictive character of Vanilla is reinforced by Coconut powder. White Musks envelop the Vanilla and powders for a contemporary, luminous perfume.’ - Aurélien Guichard
Suzy says this is ‘One of THE best vanillas if you’re on a budget. Or even if you’re not, come to that!’
‘Originally launched in 1994, and composed by Maurice Roucel, Rochas Tocade opens with a vibrant burst of bergamot and green notes, setting the stage for a heart that blooms with the rich aromas of rose, geranium, and magnolia. These floral elements are beautifully balanced by the warmth of vanilla and amber, creating a harmonious blend that is both sensual and inviting. The base notes of musk and cedarwood add depth and longevity, ensuring that this enchanting fragrance lingers on your skin throughout the day.’
Want to get in touch with feedback or prescription questions for Suzy & Nicola? Message via a DM @onthescentpodcast and they’ll try to get back to you or answer on the show!
