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Kensington Amber
by Penhaligon's
Kensington Amber by Penhaligon's is a classically warm amber fragrance with a prominent cinnamon core that unfolds in a rich, syrupy, and resinous manner. It blends gourmand sweetness with oriental depth, featuring vanilla, benzoin, and labdanum that create a velvety, comforting base. The opening features a fresh bergamot-laced citrus brightness, which swiftly transitions into a warmly spiced heart where cinnamon dominates with a slightly dry, vivid authenticity. The dry down reveals a soft, balsamic amber with a hint of wood and a tender vanillic warmth that lingers delicately. On some, it performs with impressive longevity and moderate sillage, while others note a shorter lifespan or encroaching sweetness that can lean cloying. It is described as unisex with a masculine-leaning emphasis, yet its elegance and emotional impact make it particularly beloved in winter, especially for a cozy, darkly romantic or nostalgic experience.
Pros
- +Elegant, rich amber center with a distinct cinnamon character that sets it apart
- +Luxurious, deeply textured scent with a high-quality gourmand-oriental balance
- +Surprisingly long-lasting and sizzly on many individuals, even beyond three hours
Cons
- −Longevity and sillage are inconsistent across individuals, with some reporting only moderate to short wear
- −Can be overly sweet or cloying on sensitive skin or for minimalists
- −Some users perceive a waxy or divisive body-odor-like note that undermines otherwise superb scent quality