Utopia

Utopia is the Parfum-strength fruity floral in the Aqualis London range, composed by Jean-Charles Mignon and made at 30 percent concentration. The brand calls it vibrant, unconventional and liberating, and it opens that way: a bright splash of blood orange with juicy apricot, while a little pink pepper and clary sage keep the sweetness in check. The heart is led by osmanthus, with rose, peony and jasmine around it and papyrus adding a dry, woody edge. Iso E Super is part of the formula, and some wearers find it heavy, reading the fruit as sweet and synthetic. Others hear a creamy, powdery fruity floral that stays interesting because of a little spice and amber. The base is patchouli, which the brand says brings the scent to life with a fizzy, earthy brilliance, then sandalwood, vetiver, vanilla and amber. It dries down soft, sweet and creamy rather than dark. Wearers report long staying power and a strong trail, and they place it mostly in spring, with autumn and summer next. It suits leisure and daytime wear best and evenings after that, which makes it one of the less formal scents in the range. The reaction is split: most voters love or like it, but a vocal few call it overpriced or overwhelming. It is worth trying on skin before buying.