126 Five

Blossom Perfumery's No. 126 references the world's most famous fragrance shape: a fizzy aldehyde-neroli-ylang opening, a classic rose and jasmine heart, and a warm sandalwood-vetiver-vanilla base with a touch of musk and amber. The sparkling top note is a fair echo of Chanel No 5's signature aldehydic effect, and the rose-jasmine heart is pleasant and true to form. Where it can't compete is density - No 5 is famous for a rich, almost solid floral-powdery accord that builds for hours, while this version is airier and softer, fading to a simple musk-vanilla base well before the original would still be in full swing. A gentler, more casual nod to the icon rather than a substitute for it.