The world of niche perfumery continues to generate debate among enthusiasts and experts. While social media is abuzz with opinions, Fragrantica, considered an online fragrance encyclopedia, has published its annual ranking based on reader votes. This year, the list includes fourteen creations chosen as the best of all time.
Among the most prominent names is XJ 1861 Naxos by Xerjoff , a fragrance launched in 2015 that combines lavender, bergamot, honey, cinnamon, jasmine, tobacco, and vanilla. The Italian house describes it as "a bright and luminous breath of fresh air." However, it's not the only one: the list includes works by perfumers such as Andy Tauer, with two of his creations, and brands like Nishane and Frédéric Malle.
Fragrantica's selection
Fragrantica readers' vote has resulted in a diverse selection. At the top are Oud Maracujá by Maison Crivelli (2023), Ani X by Nishane (2023), and Vanille Havane Coeur de Oud by Les Indémodables (2024). These three fragrances occupy the highest spots, but the list continues with other equally remarkable creations.
Perfumer Andy Tauer is represented with two creations: L'Air du Desert Marocain (2005) and Au cœur du désert marocain (2016), both highly regarded by the community. Also featured are Ani (2019) and Ani X (2023) from the Turkish brand Nishane, as well as Musc Ravageur by Frédéric Malle, a creation by Maurice Roucel dating back to 2000.
The list is completed by Vanille Havane (2020) by Les Indémodables, PHI Une Rose de Kandahar (2013) by Tauer, 03 Lonestar Memories (2006) by Tauer, Opus 1144 (2015) and ennui-noir (2016) by Filippo Sorcinelli, and Darling (2016) by De Gabor. All of them have been chosen for their unique composition and innovative character.
As for the most voted fragrance in previous years, Naxos by Xerjoff remains a benchmark. Its blend of citrus, lavender, honey, and tobacco makes it a versatile and elegant choice, capable of transporting the wearer to the atmosphere of Sicily. It's no wonder it continues to be a favorite among Fragrantica users.
The variety of styles is vast: from deep woods and spices to sweet and floral notes. This demonstrates that the world of niche perfume offers options for all tastes, and that quality and originality are the criteria most valued by enthusiasts.
With this selection, Fragrantica offers a useful guide for fragrance lovers. The final choice will depend on each individual, but these fourteen perfumes undoubtedly represent the best of current niche perfumery.
