by Mancera
Vanille Exclusif is a soft, creamy floral vanilla with a prominent peach and green osmanthus opening that evolves into a warm, well-blended composition of vanilla, whipped cream, brown sugar, and white florals. The fragrance starts with a sharp, slightly harsh herbal note from osmanthus, which some find overwhelming or even unpleasant—like a spicy green or synthetic plastic note—but after a few minutes, it mellows into a velvety, sweetly gourmand profile. The vanilla is not the dominant note at first, but it gradually emerges as a creamy, cozy base, often described as light enough to avoid cloying, yet substantial enough to provide comfort. Its development is linear and soft, with a delicate sillage and moderate longevity. The scent leans feminine but is wearable for all genders due to its airy, personal character. It performs well on skin and is especially praised for its lasting power and subtle transformative effect—many who initially disliked the opening grow to appreciate the scent over time. Overall, the perfume is not a bold or opaque gourmand like Velvet Vanilla or Sweet Vanilla. It's more nuanced, with florals and fruit balancing the sweetness, making it one of Mancera’s lighter, more wearable creations. While it resembles Kilian's Good Girl Gone Bad in initial impact, it differs in having more vanilla and less sharpness, with a smoother, more integrated development. It suits daytime wear, including work environments, and is best suited for spring and autumn, though some find it too soft or sweet on peak summer days.