FINALLY!!!! Fragrantica have added the odd few Bella Bellissima fragrances they had missed from the database. Quite simply Vetiver Spice IS the greatest vetiver fragrance I've ever tried. It's a triumph, a complete knockout comprising all the best things about vetiver fragrances and packaging them in a high quality and incredibly long lasting package. The balance of this composition is perfect, opening with citruses, retreating into peppery spices, with clean aromatic cardamom at the back. Even more interest is injected into this one by the hint of absinthe and even a bit of a creamy texture (maybe the vanilla?) The main thing is that the vetiver is truly enhanced, taking centre stage and not being overpowered by interesting surrounding notes. Right into the drydown you get a smooth, slightly smokey woods it's absolutely brilliant! I'm no huge vetiver fan, I like it very much in various guises but wouldn't list it as one of my favourite notes/accords/materials. Please, please believe me if you are a vetiver fan this has to be sampled because I'm sure it will be appreciated by everyone from the grey vetiver lovers to the Encre noire fanatics this has something for everyone and above all quality Vetiver that will last 10-12 hours easy. Sublime, yet more reasons why Bella Bellissima is one of my favourite houses.
I do not understand why this has not caught on with more people. I know it is difficult to get in the USA but England and the EU? It's like 99 pounds for the bottle at Harrod's and at that price this is a steal. Yes, it is a vetiver and you have that running throughout the composition but the initial hit of spices (clove and cardamon?) is stunning. Even as that hit quiets down the spices still round out the vetiver in a very complete way. This all leads to a soft, woody finish that last a good bit of time. Maybe a little vanilla and a tiny bit of smoke there too. The bottle and the cap (mine is different then pictured) are outstanding also and quite heavy, just plain quality. Such an easy choice for me, especially on days I am not sure what I want to wear as this never disappoints me and I would find it hard to believe anyone would find it offensive. I have to thank Houdini and Les Oderants crew for drawing my attention to this perfect vetiver.