Vanille Absolu Parfum by Montale | Fragrance Fragrance
What does Vanille Absolu smell like?
Vanille Absolu is an unapologetic dive into a bag of fresh Madagascar vanilla beans. Unlike many contemporary gourmands that lean into sugary marshmallow or fruit, this fragrance focuses on the darker...
Enthusiasts frequently describe this as a "pure" or "linear" vanilla, making it a gold standard for those who want a straightforward gourmand without distracting floral or fruity notes.
While some find the initial medicinal or "lip-balm" opening a bit polarizing, there is a strong consensus that the dry down is worth the wait, evolving into a rich, edible aroma.
It is widely considered an excellent value for a niche fragrance, often praised for its high performance-to-price ratio and its availability at significant discounts via gray-market retailers.
Compared to other Montale offerings like Sweet Vanilla, the community notes that Vanille Absolu is noticeably spicier and woodier, lacking the creamy or powdery softness of its line siblings.
Many users recommend it as a "holy grail" layering tool, suggesting it be used to add depth, warmth, and longevity to lighter or more floral perfumes.
