by Carolina Herrera
212 VIP Black Extra presents a synthetic, gourmand interpretation of the original VIP Black, centered around a prominent cola-like note that some describe as mouth-watering and addictive. The opening features grapefruit and rum, creating a citrus-alcoholic accord that quickly evolves into a denser blend dominated by cacao, musk, and lavender. Leather and moss add a sharp aromatic texture, but these notes often fail to materialize distinctly, contributing to a sense of chemical complexity rather than cohesion. The fragrance projects moderately and lingers for about three hours, which is considered short in comparison to other eau de parfums, with most users noting insufficient sillage for a distinct presence. This makes the scent more intimate than bold, suited for night wear and colder seasons, particularly when desired for its rich, artificial sweetness that some call unmissable. Opinion is divided: while some find the experience compelling and even sensual, others criticize its lack of refinement, calling it a budget version of the original, with performance that feels underwhelming and does not justify higher pricing.