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Contre Bombarde 32
by Filippo Sorcinelli
Contre Bombarde 32 is a deeply atmospheric, sweet-woody incense fragrance that evokes the solemn warmth of ancient church interiors, with a caramelized gourmand base. It opens with a sharp, resinous blend of bitter orange, elemi, and black pepper, leading into a core of cedar and sandalwood. The sweetness arrives early and unobtrusively, making the vanilla and caramel feel soft and balsamic rather than cloying. The development is smooth and layered, moving from aromatic incense to a warmly woody drydown with notes of amber and vanilla. Despite its initial sweetness, the fragrance doesn’t linger too heavily, leaving a subtle, pleasant aura that feels both grounded and nostalgic. It's most appreciated in colder months, particularly in evenings, and appeals to those who value depth, balance, and a sense of atmosphere over bold or overwhelming scent profiles.
Pros
- +A remarkably balanced mix of incense, wood, and gourmand notes that feels intentional and coherent.
- +Longevity is excellent, with notable persistence even after 16 hours.
- +The sweetness is gentle and well-integrated, creating a comforting, warm aura without feeling sticky or overwhelming.
Cons
- −The cedar note is prominent and may feel too dominant for some under the vanilla and caramel.
- −The fragrance has a gourmand character that can feel divisive, especially for those wary of sweet or candy-like perfumes.
- −Sillage is moderate, which may disappoint users seeking a bolder presence or more dramatic projection.