WHAT I SMELL: Topaze Imperiale opens with large blast of astringent alcohol, which then leads to this almost sour-smelling pine (kind of like dirty socks).  Thankfully, that little spell soon moves into a warm spice that seems a bit nutty and smells brownish to me (yes, don’t ask me why, but it makes me think “brown”).  After around five minutes, a little oud makes an appearance.  It’s lightly chewy and again, moves out-of-the-way quickly for the sandalwood to take its place along with hints of vetiver.  It’s smooth with streaks of sharpness that make it a bit lighter.  Soon again there’s another change; this time a dry wood that comes into play.  It’s a wood that seems to have been aged with some smoke and incense. After 20 minutes, the fragrance becomes very dry, highlighted with just a faint top layer of rose.  Where before I could only think that this could be worn by a man, with the inclusion of the rose, I now think it of this as very unisex.  All I can say is that Topaze Imperiale is classic and classy…and it lasts for a very long time.

From the Krigler website:

A rich mélange, grounded in a seductive Amber base, Topaze Imperiale evokes the undeniable allure of the precious stone. Intriguing top notes of Vetiver, Musk and Sandalwood lead to an addictive heart of Vanilla, Neroli and Oud before leading to the magnetic base that is accented by notes of Amber, Galbanum, Rose and Mandarin.

WHAT IT SMELLS LIKE TO ME:  This reminds me so much of my beloved Amouage Fate Woman, but this is less powdery and contains more of a burnt wood effect which makes this more masculine.  It’s like its Amouage Fate Woman’s big brother.  

THREE ADJECTIVES THAT DESCRIBE TOPAZE IMPERIALE:  smoked, eternal, confident

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT TOPAZE IMPERIALE:  I Am the Makeup Junkie

BOTTOM LINE:  Thanks to the wonderful Daisy from coolcookstyle, who purchased this precious jewel at Sniffapalooza and gave me a sample.   Topaze Imperiale is classic, with an incredible amount of subtleness.  This is a keeper and I’m thinking that maybe it’s my turn for a full bottle??!!!

• Bone Rating: 4 out of 5 possible bones
• Scent: Oriental
• Classification:  Unisex
• Expense:  $245 for 50ml EdP from the Krigler website