by Ramon Monegal
Next to Me is a richly layered spicy oriental fragrance with a distinctive leathery and incensey base, featuring saffron, oud, and rose in balanced composition. The initial impression is sweet and creamy, with prominent fruity notes like peach and coconut that bring a soft, velvety quality to the opening. Over time, the fragrance evolves into a more complex structure where the rose and oud become subtly present but never dominant, creating a delicate yet intense aroma. The leather and metallic accords add depth without overwhelming the scent, while the warm spicy and balsamic notes maintain a quiet, luxurious presence. Despite claims of misleading note lists, there's clear consensus that it's not a strong oud or rose-centric fragrance but rather a nuanced blend where the fruit and leather are integral. It wears well across seasons, especially in autumn and winter, and is suitable for both day and night, though some users find it too sharp or medicinal in warmer conditions. The projection and longevity are moderate to strong, with a consistent, smooth sillage that doesn’t feel intrusive.