Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense Review (Patricia de Nicolaï) Review + Tropical Woods Draw

 

Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense

Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense (photo/digital effects: Despina Veneti)©

After the delightful fruity/floral chypre Angelys Pear and the thirst-quenching eau fraîche Eau de Yuzu, Patricia de Nicolaï presents her third 2020 creation, Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense, a woody/aromatic eau de parfum that translates the notion of ideal tropical woods into scent through the prism of timeless French elegance. The fragrance’s name references the woods of beautiful Belize, the Central American former British colony that was granted independence in 1981, situated between Mexico, Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea. Belize may be more famous for its long coastline, idyllic beaches and spectacular coral reef system, however more than 60% of the mainland is covered with dense rainforests, known for their impressive biodiversity. Mme de Nicolaï composed her personal fragrant interpretation of the Belizean forests using two (previously paired in her Thé Narghilé home fragrance collection) key ingredients that aptly take the wearer on a fantasy trip to this tropical paradise: Guaiac Wood and Mate.

 

Patricia de Nicolaï & Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense (photos courtesy of Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur)©   

Guaiac Wood comes from a small blooming tree with evergreen foliage (Bulnesia Sarmientoi, also known as “Palo Santo”, a name it shares with the Bursera Graveolens species) that grows wildly in the Central/South American jungles. In those parts of the world, this “Sacred Wood” has been cherished for centuries, used as multi-purpose incense (to scent/purify the air, heal serious ailments, and ward off evil spirits). The precious aromatic wood is protectively engulfed by the tree’s bark, and the essence used in perfumery is derived from from the stripped heartwood. The guaiac wood oil started being systematically produced in 1938, when the first local oil-producing factory opened in Paraguay; the ever-growing demand for this exceptional natural ingredient brought on the inevitable danger of the plant’s extinction, and the wood’s harvest is currently being regulated. The guaiac oil has a complex, fascinating aromatic profile, ranging from sweetly balsamic to tar-like smokey.

 

Best Guaic wood Fragrances

Guaiac Wood (photo: Judith Fuchs, via knisterwelt.com)©, traditionally served mate infusion (photo via bibamagazine.fr)© & Belizean jungle forest (photo: Colin Dodgson)©

Mate (or maté) is another ingredient that instantly transports mind and senses to Central/South America. National beverage of several countries there, mate is a caffeine-rich infusion that is prepared by soaking dried leaves of the yerba mate plant (a type of holly) in hot water, traditionally served in a calabash gourd and drunk with a bombilla (a metal straw that also serves as strainer). This highly stimulating drink is often shared communally, as a social activity with its own etiquette. As a fragrance ingredient, mate exists in both oil and absolute form, with its aromatic properties largely depending on the method of process (for instance, the bleached mate absolute places the emphasis on the fruity and ambery facets of the raw material, as opposed to the prominent leathery, phenolic aspects of the darker absolute). Mate is still somewhat underused in perfumery, but its variety of achievable aromatic effects, as well as its fougère/chypre tonalities, have already attracted the interest of several gifted perfumers, like Mme de Nicolaï.

 

Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense review

Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense (photo/digital effects: Despina Veneti)©

Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense opens like an invigorating, energising cup of smoked tea with a slice of bergamot, sweetened by sandalwood-like milkiness, and generously spiced by mind-clearing cardamom and heart-warming clove. The use of guaiac wood here is exemplary, being so much more than a base note; in fact, the ingredient shines right from the beginning, complimenting and underscoring all the other raw materials. Its citrusy/fruity undertones add depth to the top notes of juicy bergamot and apricoty osmanthus, while its woody rosiness interestingly tames the floralcy of the rose itself; finally, its lactonic, honeyed woodiness crowns the fragrance’s earthy base (patchouli, vetiver, oakmoss) with a creamy, almost vanillic halo. Equally masterly is the use of the mate absolute; its bitter-sweet, dry and moist, herbaceous scent decidedly aids the guaiac wood in generating the composition’s mystical cloud of incense-like smokiness, with its tobacco leaf and hay accents. On paper, the listed ingredients might give an impression of dark, sober woodiness; however, Mme de Nicolaï’s ever-polished, luminous touch elevates the tangibly earthy notes to the realm of the ethereal.

Notes: Bergamot, Osmanthus, Ambrette Seed; Rose, Cardamom, Clove; Guaiac Wood, Patchouli, Mate, Vetiver, Oakmoss, Musk.

Editor’s note: Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense is currently exclusively available for purchase at the Nicolaï stores in Paris, Neuilly-sur-Seine and London; from mid-October 2020, it will also be sold through the brand’s online shop.

Disclaimer: I’d like to thank Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur for my bottle of Bois Bélize Intense. The opinions are my own.

– Despina Veneti, Senior Editor

 

Parfums de Nicolai Bois Belize

Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense 30ml & 100ml (Photo courtesy of Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur)©

Thanks to the generosity of Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur, we have a draw for a 30ml bottle of Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense for one registered reader WORLDWIDE. You must register here or your comment will not count. To be eligible, please leave a comment saying what you enjoyed most about Despina’s review, if you have a favorite Nicolaï fragrance, and where you live. Draw closes October 2, 2020

Follow us on Instagram: @cafleurebon @despinavnt @nicolaiparfums @michaudenicolay

We announce the winners only on our site and on our Facebook page, so like Çafleurebon and use our blog feed… or your dream prize will be just spilled perfume…

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109 comments

  • JH says:

    I see I’m not the only one making a mental association of this new release with their Thé Narguilé ambiant fragrance! I know Mme de Nicolaï often takes inspirations from her own home fragrances for her fine fragrances and vice versa. I’d love to smell this.

    Thanks for the giveaway! I live in China.

  • ll grhm says:

    I love Nicolai fragrance New York. I live in the US and I enjoyed this about Despina’s review, I thought it was very descriptive; “Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense opens like an invigorating, energising cup of smoked tea with a slice of bergamot, sweetened by sandalwood-like milkiness, and generously spiced by mind-clearing cardamom and heart-warming clove.”

  • mleenstra says:

    I like how Despina explores the materials of Guiac wood and Mate as I did not know much about the former and did not know anything about the latter. This sounds very unusual and I love woody spicy fragrances. I’ve only been acquainted with Nicolaï fragrances recently and really enjoying the pear and rose note in their Musc Intense. Marit in the Uk

  • Doni says:

    I learned a great deal! Didn’t know that guaiac wood can come off as smokey. Would be interested to try true mate as well. Definitely underused in perfumery. I like the sound of the tea-ish opening in BBI, espcially for the autumn; and although I’m generally not a fan of lactonic bases, it almost seems appropriate to balance out the earthy tones. A wonderful article. Neroli Intense still my fav from the brand! Canada.

  • BostonScentGuy says:

    I loved the etiquette info around the consumption of mate! This also just sounds so lovely–bright woods, mate, with a vanillic undercurrent. Beautiful! My favorite PDN is Vie de Chateau. Thanks for this draw–I’m in the US.

  • joshuaj@masterwerks-inc.com says:

    I loved how this review explored the history of the two key ingredients, guaiac wood and mate and how those ingredients can accentuate a fragrance.

  • joshuaj@masterwerks-inc.com says:

    I have never tried anything from this house but Eau de Yuzu and Incense Oud stand out to me along with Bois Belize Intense.

  • Aleks says:

    I love notes of this perfume! Perhaps most of all perfumes form this brand. I have to try it. I also have to say that I enjoyed the details about all of the notes and how Despina introduced them. I am a perfume nooby so I enjoyed and learned a lot reading this review. I’m from Illinois, US.

  • VoteJOE says:

    Very cool that this is smoky woody tea. I know I would love to win
    Favorites include Cuir Cubana and NIcolai patchouli intense
    NY USA

  • Annatar says:

    I always learn something new from your reviews, Despina! Even though I’ve been a mate drinker for more than a dozen years, I didn’t know that perfumers actually use the natural oil and absolute, or that a bleached absolu exists!

    I own a few favorites from Parfums de Nicolaï: New York Intense, Vanille Tonka, Fig Tea and Vie de Chateau Intense. It would be great to add one more Intense to the list, don’t you think? 🙂

    Russia

  • phoenixad says:

    just the description of the opening got me hooked :smoked tea with a slice of bergamot, sweetened by sandalwood. Ad a lover of woody aromatic fragrance i hope ill be able to try this one. I like new york intense from this house.
    Im in EU

  • Trinity33 says:

    From the warming spices to the mate, there’s a lot of energy in this fragrance. It sounds earthy and grounding with the oakmoss, patch and guaiac wood. I tried a few sample of PdN scents before, my favorite being Rose Pivoine. Commenting from the US.

  • lmsa says:

    I haven’t tried a Nicolaï fragrance, but the description of the interplay of the notes makes this one sound lovely. I’m in the US. Thanks!

  • LindsayK says:

    I am so intrigued by this perfume. Despina’s description of the scent leaves so much to think about. She mentions that guaiac wood can present itself as either sweet balsamic or smoky. And mate has potential to be fruity or phenolic. She then observes that the notes on paper seem dark in contrast to the actual luminosity within. So much to imagine, which I love. I live in Oregon, US.

  • RedRover says:

    Wow, this sounds right up my alley. I am a big fan of Nicolai Parfumeur and all the notes in this perfume. I enjoyed Despina’s insight into both the origins and traditions of the raw materials, as well as her description of the interplay of the notes and their resulting scent. Some days my favorite Nicolai perfume is New York intense, but other days it is Patchouli Intense. I currently live in Taipei, Taiwan.

  • INYA says:

    Visiting Belize was on my bucket list. Perhaps a fragrance representing it is the next best thing. Thanks for the opportunity! Mich USA

  • Tobacco11 says:

    Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Belize Intense sounds like a rich, decadent cup of Milk tea with notes of Bergamot, Cardamom, Clove and Maté.
    I’ve never sampled this house and would love to receive a full bottle.
    SK, Canada

  • Melissa says:

    I have more than one favorite from this line, but this summer, I loved Cap Neroli. Despina’s review makes Bois Bélize Intense sound perfect for fall weather. I enjoyed her description of the use of mate, both as a drink and as an ingredient in fragrances. I’m in the US.

  • Dami says:

    I’m thrilled to see a new fragrance from Parfums de Nicolai, one of my favorite brands. I like the idea of a smoky tea scent with citrusy and woody undertones. My favorite scents from the line are Rose Royale and Neroli Intense. I am in the USA.

  • NiceVULady says:

    Ooooh this sounds like something I would really like. The combination of the mate and guaiac wood sounds wonderful. I like all the possible nuances. Great review and thank you to Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur for making this draw possible. I’m in the USA

  • Natalia306 says:

    “On paper, the listed ingredients might give an impression of dark, sober woodiness; however, Mme de Nicolaï’s ever-polished, luminous touch elevates the tangibly earthy notes to the realm of the ethereal.” Sounds like perfum that can be very nice in my climate too!
    Florida USA

  • drjedi says:

    Despina’s review brought to life the fragrance Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense. I liked the photos and the history of guaiac wood and oils. Having been to the jungles of Belize, and also being a lover of yerba mate tea, I’d love to try out this fragrance. Thanks for the review and the draw. Writing from the USA.

  • Lancaster01 says:

    That was a rich, detailed review of the scent! Am very intrigued with this house now. Thank you for the lovely journey !
    Canada.

  • helenlam says:

    I was thinking this was going to be darkly earthy herbal based on the two main notes, but then the osmanthus and rose notes caught my eye! This really does sound like an interesting fragrance and I hope to be so lucky as to give it a try to see how it sparkles! I haven’t tried anything from this house before. I live in the USA. Thanks for the giveaway!

  • Linelle says:

    Tropical woods! I heard a lot about this house but never had a chance to try any of their perfumes. Guaiac wood and mate combo sounds very comforting! Would love to try it out..
    Lina
    Lithuania, EU

  • flosolentia says:

    I really appreciate the way Despina told about this fragrance, I had no idea about Mate component and how it smells, I think indeed it is rarely used note, so it is even more interesting to try this fragrance. My all time favorite is Baikal Leather and in general I absolutely adore the approach of Patricia to making perfumery. Her works are extraordinary and mostly compositions don’t reflect the name of the perfume which is charming in my opinion, and always causes curiousity.
    Moscow, Russia

  • Jos says:

    This seems like a great house, I have never tried anything from this house before. Thanks for the opportunity and the great review!! Living in the EU

  • Salem says:

    Sounds like a spiritual and yet delicious concoction! The notes of maté and honeyed woods are comforting and beneficial to mind and body, while the fruity and earthy notes surely seem to give depth and dimension to the clarity of the tea start. I have only tried Patchouli intense by this Maison and it was powerful and skillfully done. I am in the EU.

  • Sorohan Adriana says:

    Delightful notion of tropical wood ideal in perfume specific to timeless French elegance.
    In this daily agitation we need elegance and roots.
    This fragrance reminded me of that and also gives me the timeless feeling of warmth and the comfort of an elegant noble rosewood armchair “energising a cup of smoked tea with a slice of bergamot, sweetened by sandalwood-like milkiness, and generously spiced by mind-clearing cardamom and heart-warming clove”
    I am from Eu Bucharest Romania

  • Teresa says:

    I have never tried this house. It is interesting to read about the prominent woods in this perfume and inspiration. I love the idea of woody and ethereal
    Uk

  • Amaziz89 says:

    Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense opens like an invigorating, energising cup of smoked tea with a slice of bergamot, sweetened by sandalwood-like milkiness, and generously spiced by mind-clearing cardamom and heart-warming clove. The use of guaiac wood here is exemplary, being so much more than a base note; in fact, the ingredient shines right from the beginning, complimenting and underscoring all the other raw materials. Its citrusy/fruity undertones add depth to the top notes of juicy bergamot and apricoty osmanthus, while its woody rosiness interestingly tames the floralcy of the rose itself; finally, its lactonic, honeyed woodiness crowns the fragrance’s earthy base (patchouli, vetiver, oakmoss) with a creamy, almost vanillic halo. Equally masterly is the use of the mate absolute; its bitter-sweet, dry and moist, herbaceous scent decidedly aids the guaiac wood in generating the composition’s mystical cloud of incense-like smokiness, with its tobacco leaf and hay accents. On paper, the listed ingredients might give an impression of dark, sober woodiness; however, Mme de Nicolaï’s ever-polished, luminous touch elevates the tangibly earthy notes to the realm of the ethereal.

    Notes: Bergamot, Osmanthus, Ambrette Seed; Rose, Cardamom, Clove; Guaiac Wood, Patchouli, Mate, Vetiver, Oakmoss, Musk. I am intrigued by the notes especially patchouli and rose being my favourite. My favourite from this house is Patchouli intense. Thanks a million from the United Kingdom

  • mere_D says:

    Writing from New Zealand here, I love how Despina describes the forest scents in Belize! This sounds gorgeous with the mate accord. I love Yuzu Intense and look forward to trying Bois Belize!

  • Ozzyaziz says:

    After the delightful fruity/floral chypre Angelys Pear and the thirst-quenching eau fraîche Eau de Yuzu, Patricia de Nicolaï presents her third 2020 creation, Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense, a woody/aromatic eau de parfum that translates the notion of ideal tropical woods into scent through the prism of timeless French elegance. The fragrance’s name references the woods of beautiful Belize, the Central American former British colony that was granted independence in 1981, situated between Mexico, Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea. Belize may be more famous for its long coastline, idyllic beaches and spectacular coral reef system, however more than 60% of the mainland is covered with dense rainforests, known for their impressive biodiversity. Mme de Nicolaï composed her personal fragrant interpretation of the Belizean forests using two (previously paired in her Thé Narghilé home fragrance collection) key ingredients that aptly take the wearer on a fantasy trip to this tropical paradise: Guaiac Wood and Mate. I am intrigued by the notes especially guaic wood and mate two notes I am not familiar with. My favourite from this house is New York intense. Thanks a lot from the UK

  • oana7 says:

    I like Nicolaï perfumes a lot, I own New York Intense and Angelys Pear and also like Vie de Chateau and Maharanih.
    Smoked tea sounds perfect for me and Despina’s review made me wanna try this, especially since I’ve never smelled anything with mate before.
    Thank you for the give away. I live in EU.

  • Jed Or Alive says:

    I really appreciated the background info on guaiac; it’s nice learning more about the notes that we’re always hearing about. I’m a huge fan of Mme. Nicolai. My favorite would be NY Intense. Residing in California, US.

  • RobertQ says:

    What I enjoyed most was hearing how a genre of perfume such as the tropical one was combined with the French style and how the seamlessly blended together to make what sounds like a stunning fragrance. I love the house and this sounds like another winner from an amazing perfumer.

    I’m from Ireland.

  • Andreea Florica says:

    To be honest, into the woods I feel like home. The freshness of an summer forest it’s my favourite smell. The review took me there. I never tried this house.
    EU. Thanks!

  • Elis says:

    Despina made this sound so enticing! I really enjoyed reading about the raw materials. I love many Nicolai fragrances. My favorite is Le Temp d’une Fete, unfortunately discontinued. I live in the Netherlands.

  • docvenky1 says:

    Fantastic in depth review by Despina from a great house – Can’t wait to try it out – didn’t realise that Guaic wood can have a smokey element to it – sounds interesting
    I live in the United Kingdom

  • zhiang0113 says:

    I love mate tea – both drinking it, and even more so, smelling it in fragrances! The aroma makes me feel at home, and I could smell it all day. Before this, I didn’t know that there was a bleached mate absolute and that it smelled different from regular mate absolute – thank you Despina for sharing! I haven’t tried any Parfums de Nicolai fragrances, but besides Bois Belize Intense, I’m particularly curious about New York Intense and Eau de Yuzu. I live in the UK!

  • Eriy says:

    I love tea scents so I would love to try this and with Osmanthus it sounds lovely. I’m in U.K. and I have Fig Tea from Nicolai which is the perfect summer scent for me.

  • Steve A. says:

    I’m interested in the “fougère/chypre tonalities” of the mate note. From the house I rather like New York. US

  • commodity says:

    Haven’t tried Nicolai fragrances before but have heard great things about them! The combination of notes sounds wonderful. And I love the pictures in the review article!
    Hong Kong

  • kirisekii says:

    What a nice notes of this perfume! Despina described it so beautifully.
    I actually don’t have any fragrance of Nicolai, but keen on trying it.
    I am from the EU.

  • hannahrgeyer says:

    This perfume’s review FASCINATES me. My family is from Brazil, so maté is something I’m familiar with, both conceptually and also in my day-to-day life. I’ve also recently tried the Palo Santo perfume from Mizu, which is a more straightforward study of the scent. I love that one, but think I’d be more interested in something a bit more complex.

  • xoe says:

    I love the description of Mate and its use. This is what really pulled me in: “the notion of ideal tropical woods into scent through the prism of timeless French elegance.” I have never tried a Nicolai fragrance and I live in the USA.

  • yehuda salzberg says:

    Belize is one of those hidden gems that I would love to visit some day. Until then, I’m sure I will enjoy the olfactory journey to this unknown land through Mme De Nicolaï’s creation. Sounds like a wonderful scent for the coming autumn days: tea, woods and spices! Thanks for the draw! I live in Israel.

  • Hashim Madani says:

    What caught my attention about Despina’s review is what seems to be the star of the show; the guaiac wood. Bélize Intense just might be THE reference fragrance for outstanding use of guaiac wood. I sampled a few Nicolai fragrances but I’ve yet to find a ‘must-buy’ from this house. VA, USA.

  • Hikmat Sher Afridi says:

    An impressive perfume house that every creation is a masterpiece. The best to my nose is Patchouli Intense. Nicolai Parfumeur Createur Bois Belize Intense with Guaiac Wood & Mate combo, and smoked tea sound interesting.
    Thanks for your generosity, count me in, please. Pakistan

  • aud604 says:

    I am a huge fan of Nicolai, in particular, New York Intense as well as Eau de Yuzu. I enjoyed how transportive this review was – I feel like I am in South America. I can’t wait to try this fragrance! In from Canada.

  • trabuquera says:

    Wow! Fascinating information on guaiac wood, my favourite note in the whole world – it’s concerning to learn about its conservation status and I hope it doesn’t go the same way as Mysore sandalwood in terms of cost and unavailability. I have only ever tried one Nicolai – her zingingly wonderful Neroli Intense … another favourite note of mine which the house did to perfection there. All that and cultural education on mate tea, as well. I live in the UK and would love to be entered into this draw, please.

  • Eirik H. says:

    It was quite interesting reading more in depth about the history of guaiac wood, as well as Despina’s description of the various aspects that can be highlighted when using mate as a perfumery ingredient. Personally, I love drinking mate tea, it can be a great alternative to coffee in the afternoon. Its aromatic profile is quite intriguing and I can see perfumers exploring this ingredient more in the future. It would be wonderful to actually experience mate in this creation by Mme de Nicolai. Thanks so much for the chance to smell this artwork! Oregon, US.

  • patrick_348 says:

    I appreciated Despina’s discussion of guiac wood and mate, two notes I don’t really know much about, and her words make me want to try Bois Belize Intense all the more. I have never sampled or owned a Nicolai fragrance, but this would be a great place to start. I live in the US, in North Carolina.

  • SandiL says:

    I have such fond memories of Belize a magical place. I also have a heartfelt fondness for the creations of Mme de Nicolai. They have a way of reaching deep into my soul.
    I loved how this part of Despina’s review resonated with me.
    “Mme de Nicolaï’s ever-polished, luminous touch elevates the tangibly earthy notes to the realm of the ethereal.”

  • Shibics says:

    I can’t imagine what the tropical woods smell like, but I’d like to. I’m always curious to sniff a fragrance and see if my nose can match it with the concept.
    Despina-s review made me also curious about “Mme de Nicolaï’s ever-polished, luminous touch”, since I’ve only tried [and loved] Odalisque from this house.
    I live in Europe.

  • roxana.t says:

    I have never tried perfumes from this brand before but I really would love to.My fave part of this review was the lesson part regarding guaiac wood and mate.I live in Italy

  • wincenzo says:

    Despina’s review captures the mysterious duality of this fragrance – on one hand it is tropically minded, on the other it is traditionally French; on one hand it is smoky, woodsy and earthy; on the other it is refined, elevated and elegant. I think what brings the two halves together is the genius (as always) of Patricia de Nicolai, who makes the mundane luminous, and the quotidian ever-so ethereal. I can’t wait to try this. My favorite PdN scent is New York Intense and I’m based in the US.

  • JazzBelle says:

    I have never tried any Nicolai fragrances, but I would love to! I find it intriguing that the notes seem to imply a dark scent, but Despina’s description of the notes makes it sound much lighter, much more ethereal. I love vanilla so the “vanillic halo” description makes me very curious to try this fragrance.

    California, USA

  • jundaasian says:

    Bois Belize Intense sounds like a very interesting composition with the Mate. I don’t have a favorite Nicolaï fragrance because I have never been able to try one.
    From Despina’s review, I enjoyed most the description of the perfume opening like an invigorating, energising cup of smoked tea with a slice of bergamot, sweetened by sandalwood-like milkiness, and generously spiced by mind-clearing cardamom and heart-warming clove.
    I live in the US.

  • Larisa says:

    I liked the way the review explored the history of mate, and I was intrigued to find out is also used as an ingredient in perfumes, I had no idea. I did not try any of the Nicolai perfumes, so I have no favorite. I would love the chance to try this one. I live in EU ( Romania).

  • Nina Savino says:

    My imagination is intrigued… once again Despina Veneti’s magnificent descriptions leave me with a palpable presence of scent… I would love to try this with many thanks, from Upstate NY USA

  • RonaldJ says:

    I am a bit curious about the Mate and Guiac Wood notes because I haven’t smelled these before. I love masculine woody and spicy fragrances and this piqued my interest.

    I haven’t tried any Nicolaï fragrances, but would love to be introduced to the brand.

    UK

  • statikstepz says:

    I’d love to be entered in your giveaway! I live in the United States (Florida). I havent heard of this Fragrance House before, but I’m glad that I have now. I love this review. I like how the reviewer really broke down a lot of the notes and described where they came from, what they do, how they act, etc. It really gives you a good sense and understanding of where this fragrance comes from, and what it is trying to accomplish. I love the mix of citrus, rose, and woods, as well as a certain earthiness that ties it all together. From everything that I see in this review, this fragrance does a great job of real encapsulating that, and I am very happy I have learned about this house today and this particular fragrance. I would love the opportunity to win this fragrance, it just sounds absolutely beautiful to me and something I would love very much! Thanks for another great review and the opportunity to win this!!

  • Iuno Feronia says:

    Thanks for the draw and this review. The ingredients Sound very apt for this time of the year. Ebers morning I bike to the office through a big wood and the rain makes ir smell wonderfully earthy and ethereal. I live in the Eu. I havent a scent of Nicolai perfumes.

  • vickalicious says:

    I appreciate the background information and history on guaiac wood, I didn’t know much about it. I’m intrigued by the mate not in this fragrance! I’ve never tried any of the Nicolai fragrances, but would love to. Texas, USA.

  • Laurentiu says:

    This fragrance surely does have some beautiful notes and Despina’s description of them, really makes me to want to test it!
    Europe. Thanks!

  • aurora_ru says:

    Wondefully described: “Bois Bélize Intense opens like an invigorating, energising cup of smoked tea with a slice of bergamot, sweetened by sandalwood-like milkiness, and generously spiced by mind-clearing cardamom and heart-warming clove. The use of guaiac wood here is exemplary, being so much more than a base note; in fact, the ingredient shines right from the beginning, complimenting and underscoring all the other raw materials. Its citrusy/fruity undertones add depth to the top notes of juicy bergamot and apricoty osmanthus, while its woody rosiness interestingly tames the floralcy of the rose itself; finally, its lactonic, honeyed woodiness crowns the fragrance’s earthy base (patchouli, vetiver, oakmoss) with a creamy, almost vanillic halo.” Nothing to add, except that I see a lot of favorite notes and motifs here. My favorites from Nicolai are Patchouli Intense and Eau de Yuzu.
    Thanks for a very generous draw, I am from the EU.

  • C K says:

    I really liked how Despina explained how the Guaic wood is present throughout the fragrance and how it effects the other notes. It sounds really interesting as well as how she mentioned from the notes it may seem very dark but actually is ethereal. Ive not tried any Nicolai fragrances yet. Thanks for the generous draw from CT USA.

  • DuftHochZwei says:

    Smoked tea? I’m in! Lately I enjoyed their Baïkal Leather Intense, while New York Intense is a modern classic. So I would love to win this latest to Germany, thanks for the draw!

  • Descartes says:

    It sounds a very interesting aromatic Fougere with a combination of aromatic Belizean forests woods and the Mate tea, South America’s national drink. I guess the tea note balances the sweet overtones of the Patchouli and the turpentine quality of the woods. Also some similitudes with the spicy Nepali tea with the cloves, cardamon, and milky. Curious to smell her interpretation of the oakmoss accord since it’s been banned outright under the terms of its IFRA restrictions. I love New -York by Nicolai Parfums. Thank you. From Ireland (EU)

  • Ale says:

    I enjoyed very much the way both the Guaiac Wood and mate are explored and described and I definitely learned something new. I knew about “Palo Santo”, but I had no idea where it came from. I don’t have a favorite fragrance from Nicolaï. I live in Italy.

  • Sngash says:

    Thank you Despina. Bois Bélize Intense sounds quite lovely especially for this lover of tea and all things spice 🙂 My favorite from Parfums De Nicolai is New York Intense. I’m in USA

  • Diana D says:

    I actually never knew where Guaiac Wood came from. But I’ve always loved that note in fragrances. This sounds like a wonderful fragrance for the Fall.
    I live in the US.

  • Princess Anna says:

    I have recently bought Odalisque from Nicolai Parfumeur, which I find very precious and I imagine that Créateur Bois Bélize Intense is as exotic and special as the other fragrances from Nicolai Parfumeur.

  • m.r.everything says:

    Such a beautiful write-up from Despina on such a beautiful fragrance house! I have only smelled a few from Patricia de Nicolai, but the few I have smelled have all been stunners! New York and New York Intense are insanely gentleman like and sophisticated. I do not own a bottle, yet but I plan on it for sure…. how could you go wrong with Fig Tea from Patricia?!?! It is so beautiful! The only one, at the moment, that I have a full bottle of is Amber Oud, and I can’t say enough about it. My words won’t do it justice! With all that being said, Despina has made Bois Belize Intense sounds like another winner from the brand! Despina had my mouth watering when she stated “Bois Bélize Intense opens like an invigorating, energising cup of smoked tea with a slice of bergamot, sweetened by sandalwood-like milkiness, and generously spiced by mind-clearing cardamom and heart-warming clove.” This here won me over and is going to make me seek this one out either way. I love tea fragrances…. add some rose in their, and it doesn’t really matter what else… count me in! Patrica de Nicolai has a vast repertoire of beautiful fragrances, and I am sure Bois Belize Intense will not disappoint! Thank you, Despina, for your wonderful take on Bois Belize Intense. Thank you team Nicolai, for your generosity, consistent releases of stunning fragrances, and for this awesome opportunity! You are appreciated more than you know! Thank you, Michelyn, for being you…. a beautiful fragrant soul! Sending warm wishes and gratitude from Delaware, US. Good luck all and stay safe friends!

  • immortano26 says:

    Photos are just amazing. I thin the first one might be a vizualization of the scent. Review is so inspiring and sophisticated. Notes reminds me of of Balkan tree – full of colors and textures. Poland, EU

  • KateD says:

    I adore this house! So many favorites, it would be hard to choose one. Right now I’d say Vanille Tonka is in heavy rotation for me. Her perfumes are so consistently fantastic, interesting, and still wearable. This house has not turned into a flanker-generating machine and the prices are completely reasonable. This one sounds like a must-buy for me. I really enjoyed the background information on the ingredients, I learn so much from this site! Thank you for the review & the draw. I’m in the US.

  • israelfriedmann says:

    I love this perfume, and especially this review.
    Because it is a perfume that has among its ingredients the palo santo wood, which is originally from my native country (Paraguay).
    In my native country, palo santo is used for many purposes, spiritual and healing, it is also used in our traditional drink called “Tereré”, it is the same as mate, but in this case it is with cold water.
    I don’t have any Nicolaï’s perfume, but I would love to have it.
    Miami, FL. USA

  • doveskylark says:

    I spend a lot of time in Brazil where mate tea is popular. I’d love to sample Bois Belize Intense in the tropical climate here. I love the tar-like scent of guaiac wood. I have tried New York from Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur. It makes me feel regal.
    I live in the USA.

  • redwheelbarrow says:

    I could really use a fantasy trip to a tropical paradise right about now. I’m loving your description of how the guaiac wood note compliments the other notes and the creamy, vanilic halo. This sounds wonderful. Thank you for the review. I’m in the US.

  • LinePlaneVolume says:

    Despina’s description of how the Guaiac wood supports the scent, top to bottom, is compelling… really makes me want to get my nose on it. The Nicolai I love the most is, what else, New York Intense. But, I also have several others that are also loves, including Patchouli Intense and Incense Oud. Writing from the Pacific Northwest, US.

  • chrisskins says:

    Fascinated by the mate! I own nothing with this intriguing note and would love to try Bois Belize Intense. Despina describes the fragrance as unusual yet familiar, so not sounding too challenging or too :::runs::: pedestrian. I have not tried bParfums de Nicholai; I live in USA.

  • wandering_nose says:

    Despina’s review makes me appreciate guaiac wood so much more than I have so far. Its mysterious smoky qualities sound irresistible. My favourite fragrances from the brand are Ambre Cashmere Intense and Vanille Tonka and I’d be delighted to try Bois Belize. I am based in Ireland

  • John Michael Jones says:

    My favorite PDN is yuzu & NY intense. Really enjoyed this review… very informative. Good luck all from Boston Massachusetts!

  • Ashfaque says:

    I have worn guaiac wood neat few times and some times with only some bitter and green oceanic oud from Sri Lanka and Papau. It has this wonderful aroma of lemon cheesecake with smokey undertone. From Despina’s description, it sounds like it marries quite beautifully with tea and spices. So I am thankful for the opportunity. Bangladesh and UK

  • simo975g says:

    I liked learning about the raw materials. I habe tried New York Intense and it got me very interested in this house. I live in Denmark, EU.

  • smm13 says:

    I enjoyed how this review shows how this fragrance highlights more than the obvious aspects of Belize. I think my favorite Nicolai fragrance is Rose Royal, but all of her fragrances have a distinctive class to them. I live in the USA.

  • Michael Prince says:

    Despina, this was an amazing review of Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense. I loved learning facts about the country of Belize and two of the special Belizian notes of guaiac wood and unique note of Mate. First of all I love the spicy and citrus tea vibe this fragrance gives off with a latte and creamy sandalwood vibe that ends with a spicy, smoky, and earthy/chypre base. It sounds amazing and very unique. Balle de Match is my favorite fragrance from Parfums de Nicholai. I am from the USA.

  • Brygantor says:

    What I enjoyed about Despina’s review is the way she thoroughly described the fragrance, and ended by saying: “On paper, the listed ingredients might give an impression of dark, sober woodiness; however, Mme de Nicolaï’s ever-polished, luminous touch elevates the tangibly earthy notes to the realm of the ethereal.”

    I haven’t tried any Parfums de Nicolai, but I want to sample their Rose fragrances, New York Intense, Baikal Leather Intense, Patchouli Intense, Ambre Cashmere Intense,…………………………………….

    I live in Waldorf, MD, USA.

  • AlwaysWater says:

    This sounds like a very uplifting even spiritual perfume. I enjoy using Palo Santo as incense, so I enjoyed Despina’s description about the guaiac wood component. Haven’t tried any from this house before. USA

  • Southirina says:

    Thank you, Despina, for the great info about Guaiac wood and Mate.
    You had me at “Palo Santo” 🙂 and then the fragrance got better and better. I would love to have Bois Belize. I have never tried any Nicolai fragrance before.
    I am in EU.

  • verausserung says:

    Thank you for this review. Bois Belize Intense sounds amazing already. I love Madame Nicolai’s take on woody and earthy ingredients and how she turns them into classy scents. I have around 10 scents from Parfums de Nicolai and Patchouli Intense is my favourite.
    I reside in Hong Kong.

  • IvanVelikov says:

    Natural smelling joyful tea fragrance with woods pinch of fruitiness is not something you see everyday. Autumn fragrance with a caracter.
    I had the pleasure of visiting one of Nikolai Parfemeur Createur boutiques in Paris and the one that impressed me the most was Cuir Cuba Intense . End up buying 100ml bottle for €171. Not sure if the price is still the same.
    Thank you for the generosity.
    USA

  • Barber82 says:

    Patricia de Nicolai is such a highly dedicated woman ,with a chip on her shoulder. Over 30 years of making fragrances, and still have the flame in her for creating new things, and expanding? Admirable.
    Boise Belize I think it would be easy going , yet classy tea fruity floral, with mossy foundation.
    To me Parfums de Nikolai equals New York Intense , period ! As a barber I always have the 250ml in my shop . Unfortunately you can’t get it in the States. Good friend of mine travels to Paris once a month , that’s how I’m getting the big boy. Well used to to be precise, as we all know traveling is still not so common, like it used to .
    Thank you. USA

  • Uncle1979 says:

    Bois Bélize Intense description reminded me of me eating Milky Cardamom Cake and drinking Mate Tea
    I have no experience with Parfums de Nikolai, but except for Bois Bélize Intense , I’d like to sample Vanille Tonka, Neroli Intense Sebastian reviewed a few months back, Angelys Pear , and of course the fragrance they are known for , New York Intense.
    Appreciate Despina review , and the giveaway campaign.
    USA

  • petergigov says:

    Multifaceted fragrance with a high compliment factor. Being a vain man I need to smell good, but also compliments are important to me. With Bois Bélize Intense I’m sure I’ll get lots of it.
    Almost half of my time I used to spend in Paris, and it’s a shame I never visited Parfums de Nikolai boutiques. I tried to, but it was at the beginning of the pseudo crisis, and it was closed.
    Exsiting giveaway, USA/France (rarely)
    Regards

  • WaltherP99 says:

    My first encounter with Parfums De Nikolai was when i sampled New York Intense in mid 2015,and bought it right after …yes i know i was super late to the party . As a HUGE Bois du Portugal fan for many years i was impressed by the smell, quality , longevity, projection,sillage …. fantastic fragrance and a must have for me.Nothing beats it …. at this price range.
    Everybody loves a good woody aromatic fragrance . Good to know Bois Belize is not just a linear fragrance, but there’s woody , spicy and floral notes too.
    31th anniversary of Parfums de Nikolai was ~ week ago , as far as I can remember late September , such a milestone for independent brand.
    My congrats are not only to Patricia, but to all Parfums de Nikolai employees, and especially to Axel de Nikolai.He pumped huge amount of fresh blood into Parfums de Nikolai. Just a few years back PdN were known as mature mens brand. I’ve been to PdN boutiques ~dozen times, and honestly I’ve never seen a customer younger than me, and I just turned 41 .
    Definitely the brand is going into right direction.
    Virginia USA or London UK like 97/100 times

  • LORI LAWS says:

    Great review by Despina! I loved how Despina explained Mate and Guaic Wood because I learned some new things about woody elements. This fragrance is perfect for warmer weather because of it’s woody and spiciness. I was intrigued by: “Nicolaï Parfumeur-Créateur Bois Bélize Intense opens like an invigorating, energising cup of smoked tea with a slice of bergamot, sweetened by sandalwood-like milkiness, and generously spiced by mind-clearing cardamom and heart-warming clove.” I have only tried New York Intense and I would love to try this one. Thanks for the giveaway and I live in the US!

  • Dubaiscents says:

    Wow! This sounds amazing. I love mate in a fragrance and I’m sure Ms Nicolai uses it masterfully together with the guaiac wood. I would love to try this one. Beautiful new packaging as well! My favorite Parfums de Nicolai scent is Sacrebleu Intense. I’m in the US.

  • Lindsey says:

    I enjoy this house and really enjoy tea frags so I was happy to hear about this. My favorite part of this review was learning about a new note. I think my favorite from this house that I have tried is fig tea, but I have never smelled one I didn’t like so it’s tough to say. From NY. Thank you for the review and the giveaway

  • Bubeto_GG says:

    My father signature scent is called New York Intense , and it’s made by Parfums de Nikolai.I do like it on guys 45 and up.
    Bois Bélize is is a happy fragrance I could wear on a walk with my daughter, but also at work.
    Thanks a lot
    Back and forth between USA and Scotland – 1 week in US -> one week in Scotland and so on , so basically both US and EU/UK at the same time.

  • Gig84 says:

    “smoked tea with a slice of bergamot, sweetened by sandalwood-like milkiness”

    Sounds overly delicious , I have to try it.
    I also wonder what happened with “The Narghile” , candle inspired tea scent , that was mentioned in one of previous Parfums de Nikolai giveaways on Cafleurebon . Please review it when it’s on the market.
    Thank you all.
    USA , and Germany from time to time

  • CuteGuy says:

    Still haven’t had the chance to explore this House. Bois Bélize Intense sounds nice for Fall and winter. Like to try it out. Thanks, Ca

  • Rob Skerratt says:

    Despina’s words seem to describe a dreamy, creamy yet lively fragrance. I love the description of a ” mystical cloud of incense like smokiness”. I would love to sample this beauty.
    Thanks

  • Hagrid says:

    Despina’s words seem to describe a dreamy, creamy yet lively fragrance. I love the description of a ” mystical cloud of incense like smokiness”. I would love to sample this beauty. I’m in Australia.
    Thanks