Fort Royal by Le Couvent Maison de Parfum

A vanilla-scented fragrance with berry notes and an interesting kick. Inspired by the semi-tropical climate of the Canaries, it is elegant, mature, and unisex with great class. The dry-down on skin is fantastic; it’s vegan and features Jean-Claude Ellena as the creator, which adds significant value. As always, test before buying.

At first, it’s almost scentless, but quickly a delicious candied orange with benzoin emerges, neither too sweet nor citrusy, dominating the opening. As it settles, it becomes more vanilla and smoky, perhaps due to the bitter patchouli base. On my skin, I don’t detect the berries. It is fairly linear with virtually no projection unless over-applied, lasting around six hours. A dark, mysterious unisex oriental for cold or mild weather. With low projection, it’s perfect for any time of day, creating a comforting and sexy bubble. It reminds me of my beloved Fendi Theorema, and although it is less gourmand and smokier, it could serve as a substitute. Pleasant: 9/10 Interesting: 5/10 Versatile: 8/10 Original: 5/10

A beautiful perfume. Ambered, resinous, and sweet. Difficult to define in terms of notes, but it’s very well assembled and constructed. Abundant quality and very natural. It has similarities to Porto Bello in its construction, with some orange, benzoin, and vanilla. In the dry down, a touch of patchouli comes through. Fort Royal is darker. I wish more houses like Le Couvent Maison de Parfum existed; they are a wonder. It’s worth more than many perfumes from Creed, Tom Ford, or Parfums de Marly. I’m not talking about taste, but about the essential oils used. Incredible.

Impressive vanilla with red berries. Reminds me a bit of Ani by Nishane (vanilla with ginger). Niche quality at an unbeatable price. It’s quite a showstopper.

Absolute madness for me. Perhaps because I adore spiced vanillas, especially with benzoin. Of the three I’ve tried from this house, none have disappointed; in fact, they’ve stolen my heart. This one, in particular, has the best longevity on skin. It’s addictive; I literally bring my wrist to my nose every time I wear it. It’s an exquisitely elegant spiced vanilla with its own distinct personality. I don’t detect any wild berries, nor any fruity, juicy, or fresh notes. Until today, I didn’t realise it reminded me of Eau Duelle by Diptyque, except that Fort Royal is more intense, enveloping, and has more body. I’m not sure if it’s for day or night, as I’m rebellious with occasions: I wear it with a sandwich alongside Oud Royal by Armani, or to formal events with White Tea by Elizabeth Arden. Either way, I see it as versatile. A true gem, hard to find nowadays at such reasonable prices.