Imperial Boiss

Imperial Boiss opens on a bright, peppery snap of pink and black pepper, a spicy lift before the fragrance gets down to its woody business. A subtle thread of rose adds a touch of warmth and softness at the heart, then the base does the heavy lifting: a deep, smooth accord of Atlas cedar, balsam fir and labdanum that gives it a long, resinous-woody backbone. Essential Parfums' original is loved for its radiant, slightly fresh Iso E Super-and-akigalawood woodiness - approachable, polished and famously versatile; this budget interpretation captures the peppery-woody signature faithfully but reads a shade denser and less airy, missing a little of the original's transparent radiance and softness. The longevity is good for the price. It remains a confident, sophisticated everyday woody, versatile across spring, autumn and winter for the office, daily wear and relaxed evenings.