by Laura Biagiotti
Venezia is a powerful, opulent oriental fragrance defined by its complex and distinctive evolution. It opens with a vibrant burst of ripe, juicy fruits—plum, peach, black currant, and bergamot—giving it a sweet, almost gourmand character reminiscent of cherry pie or candied fruit. This fruity accords quickly deepen into a spicy, warm core of cinnamon, geranium, and carnation, layered with powdery, floral notes such as jasmine and rose. As it settles, the fragrance transforms into something more mature, with a rich, warm base of vanilla, benzoin, sandalwood, and tonka bean, enhanced by a subtly animalic, leathery note from civet and musk. The sillage is strong and enveloping, making it ideal for evening wear, with a longevity that extends well beyond a full day. It's a deeply nostalgic scent, often associated with the 1990s and considered a timeless classic, evoking romance, decadence, and a sense of old-world glamour. Its complexity and rich depth earn it admiration from devoted users, though it can feel overwhelming or overly sweet to some. The original vintage version is widely celebrated for its greater depth, animalic nuance, and superior projection compared to the newer reformulated version.