As someone who loves fragrances, I’m excited to share with you my top picks for the best gourmand perfumes out there. Gourmand fragrances are unique in that they incorporate delicious, edible notes that can make you smell like a dessert or a candy store. These fragrances have become increasingly popular in recent years, as more people are drawn to their warm, comforting, and indulgent scents. In this article, I’ll be highlighting my all-time favourite gourmand perfumes, exploring their ingredients, and sharing why I think they stand out from the rest. So, whether you’re a longtime fan of gourmand scents or just curious to learn more, keep reading to discover the best gourmand perfumes on the market!
| Fragrance | Release | Fragrance Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lancôme La Vie Est Belle | 2012 | Vanilla, Praline and Patchouli |
| Jimmy Choo | 2011 | Pear and Toffee |
| Viktor and Rolf Bonbon | 2014 | Caramel, Peach and Orange |
| Prada Candy | 2011 | Caramel and Vanilla |
| Jean Paul Gaultier Scandal | 2018 | Honey, Cherry and Tonka Bean |
| Mugler Angel | 1992 | Praline, Coconut and Nutmeg |
| YSL Black Opium | 2014 | Vanilla, Pear and Orange |
| Lancôme La Nuit Trésor | 2015 | Praline and Caramel |
| Hypnotic Poison Dior | 1998 | Vanilla and Almond |
| SOKI LONDON Empress | 2022 | Strawberry, Rose, Popcorn, Patchouli |
What Is A Gourmand Fragrance?
A gourmand fragrance is a type of perfume or cologne that has sweet, rich, and edible notes, reminiscent of desserts, candies, or other culinary delights. The term “gourmand” comes from the French word for “glutton,” and refers to fragrances that are designed to stimulate the appetite or evoke a sense of indulgence.
In order to create these type of scents, Gourmand fragrances typically feature notes such as vanilla, chocolate, caramel, honey, fruits, spices, and other sweet or savory ingredients. They can be worn by both men and women, and are often associated with luxury and sophistication.
Table of Contents
- What Is A Gourmand Fragrance?
- Lancôme La Vie Est Belle
- Jimmy Choo Eau de Parfum
- Victor and Rolf Bonbon
- Prada Candy
- Jean Paul Gaultier Scandal
- Mugler Angel
- YSL Black Opium
- Lancôme La Nuit Trésor
- Hypnotic Poison Dior
- SOKI LONDON Empress
Lancôme La Vie Est Belle
La Vie Est Belle is a sweet praline perfume that is known for its distinctive and long lasting vanilla and patchouli base. Floral notes in the heart of the fragrance differentiate it from being just another vanilla gourmand; instead it is feminine and warm while not being sickly sweet.
I recommend Lancôme La Vie Est Belle for people that really love strong perfumes that make a statement; it’s easy to see why it’s the best selling perfume in many countries. There are quite a variety of different versions of La Vie Est Belle so check out my guide to the range here.
Jimmy Choo Eau de Parfum
The original Jimmy Choo Eau de Parfum has definitely been in my top three perfumes since its release over ten years ago. I find the fresh pear top note combined with a unique toffee base really quite addictive. It’s feminine without being an overwhelmingly sweet perfume; the pear and toffee compliment each other very well. There is a delicate patchouli note in the base which helps with lasting power too.
Victor and Rolf Bonbon
Victor and Rolf Bonbon comes in an adorable bottle, shaped like a pink bow. It is very much a caramel scent, with notes of peach and orange that lift the fragrance alongside a pretty orange blossom. I recommend it for the evenings because it is long lasting and definitely stands out; it won’t blend with the fragrances other people are wearing.
Prada Candy
Prada Candy has a lot of similarities to Bonbon because both perfumes have plenty of caramel. However, Candy is less sweet and more powdery; it reminds me of the scent of sweet makeup. The bottle too is very unique, evoking a cool 1960s vibe.
There is another version of Candy called Prada Candy Night which is a chocolate fragrance; still a gourmand but with that cocoa twist!
Jean Paul Gaultier Scandal
Jean Paul Gaultier’s Sandal range are characterised by a unique honey fragrance note which create a cosy sweet gourmand heart. In addition, white floral heart notes keep Scandal feminine, while Scandal Le Parfum uses a caramel note to create an even sweeter fragrance.
Mugler Angel
Angel is probably the most famous gourmand perfume. This iconic 90s scent is amazing for lasting and was one of the first fragrances to come in a completely different shaped perfume bottle to the traditional bottle. It has notes of praline, coconut and nutmeg in it and a heavy base of patchouli which divides opinion. Angel by Thierry Mugler has been a signature scent for many people for years now and has spurned many flankers. I feel no list of Gourmand perfumes is complete without mentioning Angel.
YSL Black Opium
Black Opium by Yves Saint Laurent is a misunderstood scent because of its packaging. Despite the packaging being a bit “edgy” the smell is quite like a gourmand perfume. The base notes, like every good gourmand, are vanilla and patchouli alongside a unique coffee note which helps keep the scent the gourmand. Personally, I think Black Opium is a night time scent, its my boyfriends favourite women’s perfume and works well for date night!
Lancôme La Nuit Trésor
Lancôme La Nuit Trésor is a feminine fragrance that is sexy, warm and sensual. It features a blend of sweet and spicy notes that create an alluring and sophisticated aroma.
At its top notes, La Nuit Trésor includes juicy raspberry, blackcurrant bud, and bergamot. In the middle, it has a floral heart of jasmine and a sweet and creamy gourmand base of vanilla, praline, and patchouli.
Overall, the fragrance has a warm and seductive quality, with a fruity sweetness and a touch of spice. It is a long-lasting scent that is perfect for an evening out or a special occasion.
Hypnotic Poison Dior
In my view, Hypnotic Poison by Dior is one of the best lasting designer fragrances on the market and definitely one of the best gourmands. It’s an intense blend of vanilla and almond, making it warm, nutty and very sexy. The only thing I’d say to keep in mind is that you must really like vanilla to truly enjoy wearing this perfume.
SOKI LONDON Empress
When I sent out to create Empress Eau de Parfum Intense I aimed to develop the ultimate gourmand perfume. Empress has top notes of wild strawberry and rose which swiftly reveal a gourmand base of toffee and popcorn, all underpinned by patchouli. Empress is highly concentrated and as a result will last you all day. It’s also PETA certified vegan and cruelty free.
