These 11 Vanilla Perfumes Deserve a Spot in Your Collection

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The allure of vanilla perfume is undeniable. Its smooth and sweet aroma draws people in with its innate sense of comfort and warmth. The gourmand note even has a seductive side that comes out when paired with deeper bases such as cedarwood, musk, or tobacco.

The complex scent naturally comes from the seed pods of vanilla orchids that have gradually fermented and darkened over time. Most vanilla comes from Madagascar and the island of Réunion which is famously home to the Bourbon variety. It's considered the second most expensive spice (after saffron) due to the labor-intensive process to grow and harvest it.

Its popularity skyrocketed among perfumers in 1874 when synthetic vanilla was introduced into the market, making it easier to incorporate sweetness in fragrance. It remains one of the most beloved fragrances with a 2022 collaborative study between the Karolinska Institutet and the University of Oxford finding vanilla as one of the most pleasing smells in the world.

Today's fragrance houses celebrate vanilla with intriguing interpretations that celebrate the note's unique characteristics. The versatile ingredient plays well in many of the most luxurious fragrances on the market. Here, our favorite vanilla perfumes that will most certainly earn you a plethora of compliments.

Vanilla Diorama

Christian Dior's favorite dessert is forever memorialized with this delectable scent from the French fashion house. Bright citrusy notes balance the Madagascar vanilla base while rum and patchouli add depth and intrigue. Opulent and well-rounded, Vanilla Diorama is a perfume to savor—just like a decadent treat.

Torn

Rich vanilla bean takes an earthier turn in this complex perfume from clean fragrance house Henry Rose. Freesia and lily of the valley top notes uplift the deep base of sandalwood, musk, patchouli, and vanilla. Spicy florals—rose, violet, and jasmine—sit right at the center and keep the scent from leaning overly sweet.

Tobacco Vanille

Confidence and elegance exude from this cult-favorite perfume from Tom Ford. Creamy vanilla and tonka bean complement the woody notes of tobacco leaf as ginger adds a hint of spice. Sweet dry fruit accords and wood sap layer in a sweet ending note that ties the entire fragrance together.

Eau Duelle Eau de Parfum

Diptyque's Eau Duelle celebrates the hot and lighthearted side of bourbon vanilla. Dark calamus and smoky cypriol play up the rich notes of vanilla while still honoring its sweet roots.

Replica 'By the Fireplace'

Long winter nights sitting by the crackling fireplace are perfectly captured in this cult-classic perfume for Maison Margiela. Roasted chestnuts sing through a medley of woody cashmeran, bright pink peppercorn, and spicy clove accord. Honeyed vanilla invokes a warm and comforting sensation that's beautifully familiar.

Vaniglia

Vanilla has a sunnier disposition in this fascinating fragrance by Acqua di Parma. Bergamot, mandarin, and neroli make a juicy statement right at the start as jasmine sambac and vanilla soothe at the heart. Cedarwood and musk finish the scent, leaving an unforgettable impression.

Pistachio

This D.S. & Durga treat is certainly nutty—but that's what makes it so unique. Pistachio serves as the hero note delivering a savory yet green profile that is brightened by cardamom. The vanilla cream at the base of this perfume warms everything up.

Vanilla & Anise Cologne

Jo Malone celebrates the gourmand note by infusing both vanilla bourbon and purple vanilla orchid into this luxurious cologne. The top note of star anise brings out the spicier side of the fragrance.

Vanilla Era

This intoxicating scent showcases a little bit of everything from cashmere to beetroot. Vanilla absolute, coffee absolute and papyrus form a rich and inviting base. Middle notes of black amber, wood, and saffron add intrigue as white tulip and black pepper tie everything together.

Thé Vanille Eau de Parfum

Inspired by the Japanese tea halls, matcha tea and vanilla blend deliciously together in this creamy offering from Nette. The top notes of the salt accord, cardamom, and turmeric root pull out the natural minerality of the gourmand note. Meanwhile, floral notes throughout—magnolia flower, orris, and narcisse absolute—keep the fragrance light and airy.

Vanilla | 28

Powdery jasmine and full-bodied vanilla orchid bring out the very best of each other in this captivating scent. A warm mix of musk, amber, and patchouli creates a powerful base that is softened by lingering notes of brown sugar. It's a sweet yet oh-so-addictive scent that draws people's attention.

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