by Ermenegildo Zegna
Bourbon Vanilla by Ermenegildo Zegna is a rich, deep vanilla fragrance that balances sweetness with an earthy, spicy backbone. It opens with a bold, slightly green and herbal burst—cassis, ginger, and cypriol oil—giving it an initial tang that some find harsh or overwhelming. Over time, this gives way to a smooth, sparkling vanilla that feels both sweet and airy, with subtle hints of cacao, dried spice, and earth. Despite the name suggesting boozy notes, the fragrance derives its 'booziness' from its depth and richness rather than actual alcohol—but a few users emphasized that the vanilla here is not pure or overt, though it dominates the drydown. Its signature lies in its long-lasting performance, with many noting over 12 hours of wearability, even through showers. It’s most appreciated in winter or cool evenings, with moderate to strong sillage, and while marketed as unisex, a majority of users associate it with masculine wear. Users describe it as hypnotic, addictive, and a standout in Zegna’s lineup—especially for fans of sweet, spicy, layered vanillas.