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Vanilla Touch
by La Rive
Vanilla Touch by La Rive presents a synthetic yet balanced vanilla gourmand with hints of almond, amber, and coconut, creating a fragrance that leans heavily into its boozy, slightly boozy vanilla core. It evokes the nostalgic scent of plastic toys, vanilla candles, or even a warm, slightly medicinal vanilla syrup. While the top notes of gardenia, jasmine, peach, and red apple are overwhelmingly masked by the dominant vanilla-rich base, a subtle interplay of bitter almond, sandalwood, and musk emerges in the drydown, lending depth. The scent evolves into a warm, slightly spiced, and delicate vanilla aroma that some associate with an artificial yet safe comfort, comparable to a synthetic vanilla scent that tempers sweetness with a whisper of incense or boozy almondy nuance. It functions best as a layering fragrance or as a skin-scented vanilla enhancer for richer gourmands. Some perceive it as uninspiring or reminiscent of childhood playdough, while others find it surprisingly mature and sensual—particularly when combined with darker perfumes like Just Rock! or Tobacco Oud. Its moderate sillage and moderate longevity are typical of a budget fragrance, with many noting it performs best in colder weather. The scent remains utterly delicate and intimate on skin, but some find it lasting surprisingly long on fabric even when short-lived on skin. Not all it might be for everyone, but for its price, it offers a uniquely accessible vanilla gourmand experience that suits those seeking a fun, affordable, bold scent that doesn't take itself too seriously.
Pros
- +The fragrance is balanced and deep for its price, with a distinctive synthesis of vanilla, amber, almond, and sandalwood that gives it character beyond a basic
Cons
- −The scent can feel intensely synthetic, with some perceiving it as defined by a reminder of plastic or toy-like vanilla that may be overwhelming or unappealing.
- −Longevity and sillage are moderate and inconsistent, with some users noting it fades quickly or fails to project well, especially on dry skin.
- −The top notes like gardenia and jasmine are barely detectable, making the perfumes' floral and fruity accords feel underdeveloped or misrepresented.