Best Winter Fragrances 2023 + 3 you should be wearing giveaway

 

What are the best winter fragrances 2023

image by Steven

December 21, 2023 is the official beginning of winter -the winter solstice and the longest night of the year is here. Days are short and nights are long; the season is the perfect time to cozy up with wonderfully warming winter fragrances. Here are Steven’s and Michelyn’s co-curated choices for three of the best winter fragrances 2023 you should be wearing.

Tom Ford Noir de Noir: Tom Ford’s Noir de Noir (Harry Fremont and Jacques Cavallier) Part of the Private Blend collection  Noir de Noir is a memorable rose-patchouli fragrance that smells wonderful this time of year. Tom Ford Noir de Noir is a study in contrasts- woody, floral, sweet, spicy and flavorful. Rose, saffron, and truffle enhance the blend and (I have the original bottle 2007 bottle) lasts through a long winter’s night. Notes: Saffron, truffle, rose, patchouli, tree moss, oud, vanilla– MIchelyn Camen, Editor-in-Chief

Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee (Bertrand Duchaufour in collaboration with Neela Vermeire): One of the three inaugural fragrances from the independent brand headed by Creative director Neela Vermiere, who grew up in India. Trayee, whose Sanskrit name refers to the first three Vedas (the oldest, most sacred books of India), is one of the most transporting and complex incense fragrances I know (a ÇaFleureBon Modern Masterpiece) and is one of my favorite winter fragrances, since its debut in 2012.  Master Perfumer Bertrand Duchaufour uses a high percentage of natural ingredients: cardamom, clove, elemi and ginger create a sweet-spicy cloud. Creamy jasmine blossoms dipped in golden amber swirl around the meditative base of Laotian oud and frankincense. Deeply contemplative and comforting. Top notes: blue ginger from Madagascar, elemi oil, cinnamon bark, ganja effects, blackcurrant absolute, basil,  Heart notes: Sambac jasmine absolute, Egyptian jasmine absolute, cardamom absolute, clove, saffron, sandalwood, Base notes: Javanese vetiver, Haitian vetiver, incense, Mysore sandalwood oil, patchouli, myrrh, vanilla, cedar, amber notes, oudh palao from Laos, oakmoss -Michelyn Camen, Editor-in-Chief

INeKE Jaipur Chai (Ineke Ruhland): Ineke Ruhland, is a classically trained (she taught marketing to Givaudan’s Yann Vasnier at ISIPICA) artisan perfumer based in San Francisco and Jaipur Chai is her first gourmand fragrance. INeKE is a cozy scent with traditional chai tea spices of cinnamon, cloves topped by frothy steamed milk. The ginger smells freshly ground and along with pepper adds piquancy so that the fragrance never smells like it’s from Starbucks. Rounded with rose wrapped in suede, and polished by smooth woods – Jaipur Chai is the perfect scent to spritz during a blustery, freezing night when the lights are flickering and icy snow is piling on top of the window panes. Notes: Black tea, cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, pepper, clove, rose, cedar wood, guaiac wood, vanilla, cream, suede, musk. -Michelyn Camen, Editor-in-Chief

Disclosure: from our own collections

Steven Gavriolatos’s video review of 3 winter fragrances you should own

There are Two Best Winter Fragrances 2023 for Giveaway (Tom Ford is not included)

Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee and Ineke Jaipur Chai

Thanks to the generosity of Neela Vermeire, we have a 60 ml bottle of Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee for one lucky reader in the USA and EU. The draw is for registered readers only, so be sure to register if you have not done so. (Try the discovery set https://www.neelavermeire.com/products/discovery-set if you are new to the brand).

INeKE Jaipur Chai 75m bottle for one lucky reader in the USA and  Canada ONLY (check out the special offer when you but the sample set of all 7 INeKE perfumes Deluxe Discovery Collection Volume 7 — INeKE Perfumes – San Francisco, California)

Thanks to each of the two brands , we have a reader’s choice for one of  two best winter fragrances 2023 to a registered ÇaFleureBon reader and  Redolessence subscriber in the USA  and Canada ONLY. To be eligible, YOU MUST REGISTER and leave a comment on this site with your choice should you win, what you thought of Michelyn’s written reviews and Steven’s video reviews and where you live.  Draw closes 12/24/2023 but will be announced within 2 weeks after.

Follow us on Instagram: @cafleurebonofficial @redolessence @neelavermeirecreations @inekeperfumes

This is our Privacy and Draw Rules Policy

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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78 comments

  • Furriner says:

    Excellent choices for winter scents! You make them sound so inviting! Of the two, I’d prefer the Trayee. It’s beautiful, as are all of Neela Vermeire’s fragrances, pretty much. I do live in the US. Thank you for offering this giveaway.

  • Arron_Q says:

    As a fan of incense, I was excited to see Michelyn’s claim that Neela Vermeire Trayee is one of the most complex incense fragrances she has tried. I love the way Bertrand Duchaufour works with spices so I am sure the ones used here provide a wonderful counterpart to the incense. Steven mentioned it being quite a powerhouse, which is my kind of scent. I love a strong scent in the cooler months. All of this said, I would pick Trayee if I were to win. (I already have Jaipur Chai. It is a wonderfully cozy fragrance and I highly recommend you try it.) Best of luck to all. I live in NC, USA.

  • Ramses Perez says:

    Excellent choices, I’m hoping to win Ineke Jaipur Chai as I’m a gourmand lover. I don’t have any tea related fragrances so this would be it for me. A spiced tea is also something I never thought of but here I am with Jaipur Chai. Excluding Tom Ford, it’s always amazing to get to know new houses. Winter season has arrived and these are amazing offerings. Cheers from NJ, USA.

  • FragranceIsMe says:

    Each of these fragrances, per Michelyn’s and Steven’s detailed descriptions, fit the bill wonderfully for the Wintertime. Each seems to provide a warmth in their note breakdown. I find each one to have a place in my Winter fragrance rotation. However, the comfort that is conveyed in INeKE Jaipur Chai is so inviting to me as I listen and read about it. Should I be lucky enough to win the giveaway, Jaipur Chai is my choice 🙂
    USA

  • bhernandez says:

    3 fantastic fragrances.

    I like both, Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee, and INeKE Jaipur Chai, for what Stephen mentioned on the video, and from both of them, if I win, I would like Trayee.

    Happy holidays to all. From the USA.

  • Sngash says:

    Thank you for Michelyn for the reviews. I appreciated learning that Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee is Sanskrit for the first 3 Vedas and looked into that 🙂 Steve’s video reviews were also on point and in my mind there is nothing like a nice spicy hot cup of tea to warm the insides. I’m in TX USA

  • INYA says:

    I like Steven’s choices. Patchouli is one of my favorite notes to wear during the cooler months. Michelyn mentioned Noir de Noir. I do love its truffle note. If lucky, I’d choose Jaipur Chai. It’s been on my wishlist. Thanks for another wonderful article, review and draw. Mich USA

  • white.kimberly says:

    I am simple and love tea and baking. Just reading about the notes Michelyn has written and listening to Steven’s passion for the scent of INeKE Jaipur Chai is exciting! I love visiting the boba tea shops, taking my drink out and just sipping my sweet choice in this chilled weather. It also has me curious about how it all would come together for me because I love to bake too! It’s got vanilla, spice, and everything nice, wonder if it will bring forward old memories too. I’m just starting to waft my way through the perfume world and am learning so much, thank you for this article.

    I would love to get my hands on this spicy winter wonder and start a winter collection of perfume! Jaipur Chai all the way!

    Thank you for this opportunity and these informative descriptions of each perfume!

    USA

  • Hiumei225 says:

    Great choices for winter. I really like to have wear fragrances with extra depth for cooler months.
    Best wishes to all
    California. USA

  • Jeremi says:

    My choice is Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee. The origin of the name Trayee sounds fascinating, so much history! Trayee is really fascinating so complex but so beautiful. The Elam resin mentioned in Steven’s video review really fascinated me, I also love ginger and the combination of these notes, these other spices is just for sure something magical. I live in Trzebnica, Poland, EU.

  • JSO says:

    Interesting reviews by Steven Michelyn’s reviews. Particularly since it taught of two houses I was unfamiliar with. My choice, should I win, would be Trayee. I live in NY.

  • AleksCipri says:

    From Steven’s description I definitely liked Trayee the most. I am a huge fan of resinous and incensy fragrances and when that is combined with spices… it can be so good. After reading here that Michelyn thinks this is one of the most complex incense fragrances I am definitely very intrigued! So yes Trayee is my choice here for sure! I’m from Illinois US.

  • Lola says:

    Big fan of Neela Vermeire Ashoka and Mohur. Also own field notes from paris .
    It’s a toss up but trayee with its incense and Bertrand Duchaufour gets my vote. Ps cool that ineke taught yann Vasnier.
    Too bad they discontinued Tom ford Vert d’Encense.
    Didn’t know
    USA

  • Krish says:

    The trio seem to be a collector’s dream come true. Great thanks to Michelyn for describing them with such flair.
    I have Noir de Noir on my wishlist so it feels validating!
    I haven’t heard of the other two before but I know Bertrand has a magical touch with fragrances such as the Amouage duo of Jubilation 25 and now Jubilation 40. Trayee seems right up my alley!
    Finally, I am a big fan of chai with milk and spices. How could I have not known about this one yet? Fragrances and its creator’s creativity never cease to amaze me. This will be a perfect addition to my budding collection as I live in CA.
    I am an ardent follower of Steven on Youtube so I would like to thank him and CaFleureBon for giving me and many others an opportunity to connect here and possibly win a bottle 🙂

  • MatthewKeilwitz says:

    I watched Steven’s full review of Trayee yesterday as was immediately interested because give me SPICE! Lately I’ve been layering Tauer’s Incense Extreme, L’ Oudh, and Sundowner from their discovery sets. Trayee sounds very much like an approximate combo of the three without an risking an overwhelming application. After watching today’s video and reading Michelyn’s breakdown of the profile, I simply must give it a shot.

    FL, USA

  • Uncle1979 says:

    Michelyn and Steven take on Winter Fragrances
    ☆ Tom Ford Noir de Noir i finally tried last October. Dark and slightly bitter Dark Chocolate Truffle Cake, with real rose water, and lots of saffron is how it smells. I even got the 100ml bottle. It is wonderful indeed
    ☆ Speaking about Trayee, i really wonder why Steven is not picking the sweetness, like me and Michelyn do. Not a gooey sweet gourmand of course, but I think it is a really milky fragrance, that smells really similar to Ras Malai , traditional Indian dessert. Lactonic without a doubt I believe , yet spicy and calming. As a long time Pastry Chef, I’m absolutely sure Neela Vermeire told Bertrand Duchaufour to create a fragrance that would smell like Ras Malai.
    From the original like of fragrances I love all , but mostly Bombay Bling, Mohur Extrait and Trayee.
    ☆ Ineke Jaipur Chai is a comforting fresh ginger spicy tea for the freezing weather.
    Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee I’d like to win the most
    Appreciate the two reviews, and the giveaway campaign
    USA

  • glowup says:

    You had me at incense and smoke, so my pick would be Trayee. Stephen said this is magnetic and hypnotizing. Not much else I need to hear. Sounds like just my style..

    Indiana USA

  • C K says:

    I enjoyed Steven’s video and descriptions of the fragrances. The resins and spices mixing with oud and so much more it seems going on in Trayee is very intriguing to me. I also like the idea of the lactonic warm cozy chai latte style Jaipur Chai. I especially loved what Michelyn had to say about Trayee as well about it being transportative incense but so much more as well as deep, calming, and comforting. Sounds good to me. Trayee would be my choice if I was to win. Thanks for the generous draw. From the U.S.

  • whimsical diva says:

    From both the reviews, all the fragrances described here sound so amazing. I’m especially drawn to the spiciness and resinous nature of Trayee. “comforting and contemplative” – sign me up. I’d love to enter the draw. I live in California

  • Barber82 says:

    Days are short, nights are long Winter is already here
    Tom Ford’s Noir de Noir is special fragrance i wear only on special occasions a few times per year. Some call it a great chocolate fragrance, some great patchouli, in my opinion it’s both.

    Every time I’m thinking about Neela Vermeire I remember the framed quote on the wall at the barbershop I was working as apprentice
    “To be successful, you have to have your heart in your business, and your business in your heart” . Neela Vermeire may very well have the same quote hanging somewhere in her office.
    Trayee symbolizes the pristine quality of the ingredients, the uniqueness and opulent feel. Comforting spicy fragrance, with incense and jasmine , all dipped by Neela in golden amber.
    Bombay Bling i own , it smells fresh mango fruity, and woody, in a good, natural way.
    If you happen to read the comments, please stay independent Neela.

    INeKe Jaipur Chai very spicy tea fragrance, milky and cozy.
    Trayee I’d love to win
    Thanks to all involved
    Germany

  • AttentionSpann says:

    These see like really great offerings. I think the scents all sound amazing. I do live in the US and I would love to try based on the video and the article.

  • Bunmi says:

    Thank you Steven for this great review and also thank you to Neela and Ineke for the amazing work you both do.
    I wish you all an amazing Christmas and a happy new year!

  • philippsi says:

    Thanks for such beautiful reviews, Michelyn and Steven. They definitely bring me into a festive mood! I would love to win Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee.

    Sad that Noir de Noir was discontinued – chocolate rose patchouli fragrance sounds amazing! And Neela Vermeire`s creation according to Steven’s video review with its oudy and spicy-resinous facets, indeed, it would bring me to the state of warmth esily!

    And what comes to Michelyn’s detailed reviews of INeKE Jaipur Chai and Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee are incredibly evocative, painting a vivid olfactory picture of each fragrance. Her eloquent descriptions not only capture the intricate notes but also convey the emotions and settings these scents evoke, making it easy to envision their warmth and complexity during the winter season. I am especially curious about rose in suede in INeKE Jaipur Chai!

    I am from the EU (Germany).

  • Sorohan Adriana says:

    Noir de Noir is my favorite but I want to try the spirit of winter with Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee parfume. I am from EU

  • PetaloDiCera says:

    I’d love to receive a bottle of Trayee by Neela Vermeire for this winter.
    I’m intrigued by Michelyn’s description of this perfume, a complex incense with a spicy start and jasmin all the way through.
    So, finger crossed!
    And smiles from Italy, EU.

  • Dazi83 says:

    Love the choices!
    I would like to try Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee because of Michelyn’s opinion that it’s deeply contemplative and comforting.
    I also liked how Steven described it as a really appetizing fragrance.
    EU

  • Ken White says:

    As per Michelyn and Steven’s thorough descriptions, each of these fragrances is a great match for the winter season. They all exude a comforting warmth in their note breakdown. I’ve found that each one fits well into my rotation of winter fragrances. The one that I think I can wear is the Tom Ford, and that’s my choice if I win. New Jersey, USA

  • celiamp8 says:

    I’ve always been skeptical about seasonal fragrances and very willing to wear my resins and incenses in summer, but Michelyn and Steven’s comments about Trayee make it sound like this would be the perfume to change my mind. The combination of incense with ginger and spice, with a smokiness to remind me of chestnuts roasting on the street, might just be the perfect nostalgic and comforting scent.
    I’d like to participate in the draw for Trayee from Spain. Thank you and happy holidays!

  • olgAPOISON says:

    I Want this meditative spicy cinnamony creation that is Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee. Stevens video was fun and informative. Love the name origin. Im from eu

  • Bryan says:

    Tom Ford Noir de Noir is a unisex sweet patchouli scent that last a very long time during the sheer winter cold. Great to see other offers being mentioned.

  • Artus R says:

    I have tried this a few times before hope to get a winbthis go around however I have picked up a few nice fragrances based on Steven recommendations

  • freyja says:

    The notes of Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee sound like a dream – I love cardamom in a fragrance. i would be very happy if i could try this perfume!
    i am writing from the EU, thank you for this generous giveaway! <3

  • amanna says:

    Cheers to the winter solstice, and days slowly getting longer again! Of these three wintertime must-wears, I’m most attracted to Neela Vermeire’s Trayee (though I do love a nice rose-patchouli-chocolate). Watching Steven’s review, I can tell how much he adores the complexity of this warming fragrance and would love to try it! Michelyn mentinons that Bertrand Duchaufour uses a large percentage of natural ingredients, which is something I always look for in perfume and believe that it is likely the source of that beautiful complexity.
    Best wishes from the US to all for this holiday season and new year!

  • Laurentiu says:

    Trayee sounds really nice! Never tried anything from this house, but I think Trayee would be a great starting point of discovery!
    Thanks! EU

  • rachel says:

    Wonderful picks from Steven and Michelyn! Transporting and strong incense from the magician Bertrand Douchafour make Trayee a no brainer for me! Thank you for the opportunity. Wishing all a healthy and happy holidays! In NY, USA

  • chrisskins says:

    Both fragrances sound gorgeous but the Ineke strikes me as a bit easier to wear. Steven’s enthusiasm for all three makes me wish I could do a side by side. ( Not getting greedy; wishing out loud.) It goes against all that is right to not choose a Michelyn modern masterpiece but I’m doing it. Much appreciated; I live in NY

  • Frank G says:

    I enjoyed Steven’s take on all three fragrances, although the last one Jaipur Chai sounds interesting with all the notes working harmoniously to create a sense of holding a chai tea. Michelyn mentioned how Master Perfumer Bertrand Duchaufour used a high percentage of natural ingredients in the composition of Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee which sounded interesting. If I won I’d like to try INeKE Jaipur Chai. Thank you for the opportunity. New York, USA.

  • johnmadison says:

    Thank you for the wonderful reviews Steven and Michelyn! What great choices you selected…Really love them all. However, INeKE Jaipur Chai sounds absolutely divine and would be my choice. Happy holidays!
    John from USA.

  • Taleofarose says:

    Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee must be the incense fragrance I’ve been looking for. A perfect scent for meditation, and don’t we all need it at the end of the year?

    I live in Portugal/EU
    Merry Christmas to all of you

  • KSF says:

    I had a chance to smell Trayee many years ago and it has haunted me ever since. I would love the chance to win it.

  • Regis Monkton says:

    Neela Vermeire has been towards the top of my list of fragrance companies to sample, and for a while now, “Trayee” has been something I’ve been thinking I’d like a lot. I intrigued to try it when Michelyn describes it as: “one of the most transporting and complex incense fragrances I know”. I hope to win this “amazing wintertime fragrance”. I live in the U.S.A. Thanks for the giveaway opportunity.

  • rmsssss says:

    I’ve sampled both these fragrances and they both impressed me! Michelyn’s and Steven’s reviews really captured the spicy coziness that they both share. Steven pointed out the tea in Jaipur Chai, which is maybe my favorite part – a lot of chai inspired scents have all the spices, but few have such a great tea note. If I’m lucky enough to win, I would choose Jaipur Chai. I’m in MN, USA and a am a Redolessence subscriber.

  • skye says:

    Great picks for the holiday season! This time of year calls for rich, complex fragrances. I love Neela Vermiere’s compositions. I’ve tried a small sample of Trayee and I would love to win a bottle. The spices in this incense amber perfume are so well blended and rich smelling. I’m in MD, USA.

  • bobi.boj says:

    I’m so digging two way reviews on Cafleurebon , brilliant idea i believe. Two fragrance journalists are adding depth and if not different opinions, at least different nuances , the most intriguing part of Cafleurebon Best Winter Fragrances essay. The main differences on Redolessence side are the chocolate in Noir de Noir , and the oud in Trayee , both are lacking in Michelyn Camen take on the two fragrances. On Michelyn side is the creamy jasmine, lacking in Steven’s take on the fragrance.
    Tom Ford Noir de Noir is a legendary fragrance , floral and chocolate sweet patchouli.
    What a gem Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee is, unique and posh all together , with ginger and resins creating a sweet cloud
    Ineke Jaipur Chai steamed milk and spicy tea is smooth
    Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee intrigues me the most
    Thanks for the 3 two way review , and the giveaway
    From EU

  • NewSmells says:

    Great choices and comprehensive review by both Michelyn and Steven. Happy to see some previously mentioned perfumeries like INeKE and Neela Vermeire Creations. I’m really liking the concepts/vision behind these fragrances, but if I were to win I’d have to go with Neela Vermeire Creation’s Trayee. I haven’t had that many experiences with Incense focused fragrances, but Michelyn’s and Steven’s praises have caught my eye especially with the fragrance’s complexity. From USA.

  • Julie Ellen Prusinowski says:

    they all sound amazing, but I am already an Ineke fan and so would love to try Jaipur Chai. thanks for the opportunity

  • David Furman says:

    How do I begin. Trayee makes me think of two words. Strange and specific and I mean that in a positive light. This blend was carefully chosen and. I believe this could be in a league of it own by the use of absolutes and variants of the familiars. What the hell is blue ginger and how do I get my beak on it. Lol, sure its pricey but I’m sure more than worth it. Secondly, Jaipur sounds detectible from jump street. From this article I really got a sense of what I believe it may smell like. Warm and inviting. A subtle strength that brews with time just like the chai.
    The anticipation is on and I hope to win either. From Jacksonville, NC.

  • Steve A says:

    From the written reviews I was most drawn to Trayee, the one that is described as “the most transporting and complex incense fragrances”. From the video I was reinforced to this fragrance by the reviewer’s enthusiasm. If chosen I’d like the Trayee. US

  • Nikolina_84 says:

    Thank you Michelyn and Steven for introducing me to these amazing fragrances. I’d love to try Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee – a winter fragrance with spicy notes of cardamom, clove, elemi and ginger. I’m a winter child and I’ve noticed they both mentioned that this is a perfect winter scent!
    EU

  • Dosva says:

    Wonderful choices for cold weather!!
    Love Noir de Noir TF with rose and patchouli and enjoyed Michelyn description.
    As incense note lover Neela Vermeire Trayee sounds right for me.
    And Steven described it as magnetic and warm perfume !!
    Would like to win Neela Vermeire Trayee.
    US, DE

  • ElenaChiss says:

    I like the notes in Trayee and I feel like such a nice, warm oriental from Neela can easily melt the snow outside when worn on a cold day.
    Thank you from Europe!

  • WaltherP99 says:

    Let’s see what the Winter holds
    Noir de Noir by Tom Ford
    Die hard Tom Ford fanboy, and I’m happy to have vintage 250ml decanter of Noir de Noir. Fantastic fragrance

    “I have the original bottle 2007 bottle”

    Now current version of Noir de Noir is still really good, but the fragrances has been re-imagined a couple of times during the years, and side by side there’s a big difference between the vintage, and what you can currently buy. The rose is deeper, more lush , saffron is more pronounced, patchouli is not as chocolaty, as a whole the vintage is vastly superior .
    Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee
    Neela I had the blast of meeting in 2018 at Esxence, warm and genuine woman. I like the golden amber, lots of spices , ginger and oud description Michelyn made , unlike her I don’t get jasmine at all in Trayee. In my opinion Trayee is more resinous and spicy , than heavy on the incense, on my skin the incense is in the background.
    I don’t know if it’s my skin , my the fragrance in the drydown also gets a bit lactonic , something smells milky to me. Beautiful and comforting fragrance.
    INeke Jaipur Chai I’ve never smelled , I like well made spicy tea fragrances.
    Trayee would be great
    All profiles I already follow, @waltherp99bg
    Thanks a lot
    USA

  • Catherine says:

    Trayee sounds magnetic! Having lived in India, including during the winter holiday season, I miss those scents and tastes, from the ever-present jasmine to the spices and smoke all around. Steven’s emphasis on the elemi within Trayee particularly speaks to me; it’s a resin I’ve been falling head over heels for this year in the work of Filippo Sorcinelli, and I’ve also been crazing a contemplative scent as Michelyn describes Trayee. I’m in the US, and I thank you and the brand for the generosity.

  • CatherineA says:

    I just left a comment under “Catherine” above, but I hadn’t logged into my account first, so I just want to make sure I come through as a registered reader! Thank you.

  • wandering_nose says:

    Oh what a delightful read and amazing picks, thank you Michelyn and Steven! I own Noir de Noir and will be forever amazed by its depth, mystery and allure. such a treat at wintertime. When I first learnt about Trayee on this very website a couple of years back, I instantly felt drawn to it for its abundance and uniqueness, and it’s been on my wish list since that moment. I love the idea of a perfume representation of the fascinating culture and fragrant complexity of India. Jaipur Chai made me smile as I have been on a roll in terms of buying various chai themed flavored teas and immersing myself in their fragrant inviting warmth. The rose, suede and woody aspects make it sound delicious. I love the way Steven describes Trayee – magnetic and hypnotizing, and long lasting. My choice would definitely be Trayee. Happy Christmas to the CaFleureBon Team! <3 I am in the EU

  • Timea says:

    Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee sounds very good from the base of the review. I very like the notes. I like the scent of Indian spices. Thank you for the draw. I live in Europe.

  • athy16 says:

    Thank you all for your offerings again this year!
    Michelyn and Steven remind me that there are unique fragrances out there that can easily slip by us if we have the normal “reviewer” blinders on. I would have passed by on noir de noir. I’m not big on rose fragrances but the spiciness and sweetness you mentioned does make it sound perfect for winter.
    With Trayee, I love the fact that you mention the art of the naming convention, Michelyn. I really like that about your reviews, you go just a bit deeper than “smells like this…”. But both yours and Steven’s description of that warmth and smoothness has made me add it to my wishlist.
    I’m not a big fan of tea fragrances but that chai based fragrance sounds interesting. More spice than tea.

    Merry Christmas and Happy Holdiays everyone!

  • Sylvia says:

    I haven’t smelled either, but I really appreciated Michelins review- it convinced me I need to try Trqyee. It has so many of my favorite notes. I love cloves, sambas jasmine, vanilla, and sandalwood so I’d like to try the Trayee if I win. Happy holidays from the U.S., and thank you for the opportunity!

  • Milena_5 says:

    Hey , I first discovered and already sampled Neela Vermeire Creations fragrances watching Redolessence videos , and now he and Michelyn Camen are including Trayee in their list of favorite cold weather fragrances wow .
    No wonder Neela Vermeire grew up in India, and the fragrance name refers to the first three Vedas , Trayee smells like Indian spiced chai tea with milk mixed with incense con burning. Not only smells fantastic, but like Redolessence said it’s very strong too.
    Noir de Noir needs no introduction , spicy rose with dark chocolate and sense of class
    Ineke Jaipur Chai seems like a next of kin to Trayee, more woody spiced chai tea and milk fragrance
    My pick is Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee
    Thank you, and fingers crossed
    Lisbon Portugal (EU)

  • AlisaA says:

    Beautiful selection!!!
    Each of these fragrances is detailed described by Michelyn and Steven, and really wonderfully for the wintertime – warm, cozy!
    I am especially intrigued by Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee as complex leather perfume.
    Trayee is my choice!
    US

  • mmerline says:

    Great list for winter 2023! I love a complex incense fragrance in the winter time; that’s among my favorite styles of perfume for cool weather—layered and enveloping. And Ineke Ruhland’s Jaipur Chai is one of the INeKE fragrances I’d recommend to a newcomer, with it’s comforting spiced-tea notes and smooth base, as well as a uniquely creamy quality. Michelyn’s take is spot on. After reading her description of Trayee, Steven’s enthusiasm for it really makes me want to try that spicy, resinous, oud-incense frag, especially considering it’s quality materials. Thank you both for the excellent reviews.

    I’m in the USA. If I were to win, I’d choose the Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee. Thanks!

  • Angel_St_8 says:

    According to the rumors Noir de Noir was way better back in the days, I wish I had the original 2007 bottle myself. My decant lasts for around 3.5 hours at best.
    Trayee is a captivating fragrance , warm , spicy and ambery . The thickness , mostly natural ingredients , ginger and smoky incense i find to be the most appealing features.
    The brand of Ineke I’ve never heard before Jaipur Chai feels like a cup of tea I’d like to drink if I’m walking on the outside in January.
    I thought about it and if I happen to be the winner I’d choose Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee
    Thank you Michelyn Camen and Redolessence for the reviews ,and of course for the generosity
    EU

  • AromaDulce73 says:

    I would go with INeKE Jaipur Chai. I don’t recall smelling anything with Chai tea spices in it. Michelyn description of the fragrance having spices of cinnamon, cloves topped by frothy steamed milk. The ginger smelling freshly grounded really made it interesting.

    Steven sold me on the warmth that this fragrance gives, perfect for this time of year.

    Los Angeles Ca USA.

  • jojosi3 says:

    Tea scents are often the ones I seek out the most and am always hunting for new ones that will scratch that it. I love tea.
    I enjoyed reading about the notes Michelyn described, for the wonderful and delicious cozy tea it evokes. Gosh I want to smell that!!
    Steven is always very excited and engaging in his videos, and increased my desire to try the scent of INeKE Jaipur Chai.
    So thank you both for this article and video!
    I would love to win INeKE Jaipur Chai, and if not I will still certainly be adding it to my “have to try” list and hope to find it somewhere.
    Thanks as always for the thoughtful reviews and giveaway opportunities. From Canada

  • IvanVelikov says:

    It’s freezing on the outside, warming Winter fragrances is exactly what we all need right now .
    Noir de Noir and Tuscan Leather are one of the first higher end fragrances I’ve ever bought. No wonder Michelyn is speaking of her original bottle, Noir de Noir was stronger and less sweet in those days.
    Trayee is my favorite Neela Vermeire fragrance, I’m pleasantly surprised it’s part of Steven and Michelyn Winter picks. The sweet and spicy cloud is so comfortable. It’s a bit strange Steven is not getting a lot of sweetness in Trayee, but he’s skin is different than mine i guess.
    Ineke Jaipur is tea wrapped in rose , and steamed milk fragrance.
    I’d tuck my scarf under the collar of my suit , spray some Trayee and be found of the experience , my choice.
    Thank you Michelyn , Steven , Neela Vermeire, Ineke
    USA

  • Eg6964 says:

    Steven’s description the the winter fragrances makes me want to try them all! From chocolate to tea, they all sound like they’d make me feel nice and warm through the cold months. I live in CT, US.

  • N_Il_158 says:

    I wish I had the option to buy original bottle of Tom Ford Noir de Noir for a reasonable price, or at least find a sample, even sampling is next to impossible. I’ve smelled the fragrance in the Spring at Sephora and it smells pretty much like the two adepts described it rose , cacao and truffle wonderful blend , but longevity is a far cry from ‘lasts through a long winter’s night’ .
    I really like ambery and spicy fragrances with burning incense like Neela Vermeire Creations Trayee , ginger is a welcomed addition too.
    Jaipur Chai is relaxing fragrance, gourmand for those who don’t look for juvenile gourmands.
    Deeply contemplative and comforting description sealed it , Trayee would be my choice if I happen to be the winner.
    Much obliged
    EU

  • CH says:

    I loved Michelyn’s description of the spices in Jaipur Chai making sure “the fragrance never smells like it’s from Starbucks”—ha, thank goodness! Since Steven also emphasized how much “non-linearity” the spices add to that fragrances, I’m intrigued and would love to have a bottle. Reading in the US!

  • Gig84 says:

    I may be the only fragrance enthusiast who never smelled Noir de Noir before, rose patchouli and truffle is my type of fragrance.
    Neela Vermeire i believe is one of a kind person. LOVE Bombay Bling, and original Mohur, and now thanks to both of you I’m pumped for Trayee too. Smooth, balsamic fragrance with cardamom and incense , sounds fantastic. Every single aspect of the fragrance has its own place, nicely blended and adding to the whole picture .
    Jaipur Chai is fresh ginger, tea, steamed milk and woods , cozy tea fragrance.
    I believe Trayee would be a great fit for me.
    Thanks for the draw and Happy Holidays
    USA

  • AnasPet says:

    Respect for the fine cold weather picks
    Reading Michelyn Camen reviews and watching Redolessence video made me want to smell Trayee and Jaipur Chai as soon as possible. Noir de Noir I’ve smelled of course.
    Both fragrance are somewhat similar, with distant Indian connection between them. Trayee is more spicy , more resinous and there’s incense, one of my favorite notes, Jaipur Chai on the other hand is more lactonic and there’s suede leather.
    I like when incense fragrances are more complex, just like in Trayee, there’s a lot of different spices, a touch of sweetness and even jasmine.
    Thanks to Michelyn Camen and Redolessence i know Neela Vermeire did a splendid work , Trayee would be fabulous
    Thank you kindly, from EU

  • Bubeto_GG says:

    Merry Christmas Cafleurebon , and to all subscribers who celebrate , wishing you all peace, happiness and good health .
    Tom Ford Noir de Noir is simply gorgeous. I always wear it on New Years Eve . The reason Michelyn mentioned that her bottle is vintage, is the fact that from 2007 up until 2014-2015 the fragrance was on a different level in comparison to the recent batches , much deeper, less linear, less sweeter, and undeniably much longer lasting.
    Neela Vermeire Creations Mohur Extrait i adore , fantastic jammy rose, lactonic almonds and resins , with top quality sandalwood , a gem I wear on special occasions alone , Trayee I’ve never smelled. The creamy jasmine , together with the spicy ambery , and incensy base i find attractive.
    Michelyn -> creamy jasmine, sweetness, golden amber
    Steven in not picking all 3.
    Isn’t Evening Edged sweet enough to be called a gourmand, maybe not.. Jaipur Chai the name speaks for itself
    Trayee please
    Thank you for the opportunity
    USA

  • wallygator88 says:

    Thanks for the great curated list Michelyn. I really enjoyed reading about Neela Vermiere’s Trayee, which I did not realize was an incense fragrance.

    I liked Steven’s description about this fragrance as welll, particularly his notions about the scent strength.

    Cheers from WI, USA

  • Tivoli_Bam says:

    Out of curiosity I searched for 2007 and original Noir de Noir, and the prices are astronomical €2000 per 50ml ?? WOW
    Other than Noir de Noir, Trayee Neela Vermeire Creations and Jaipur Chai Ineka are both impressive. Trayee is made by Bertrand Duchaufour, it’s smoky ,there’s ginger and certain level of complexity and refinement , the fragrance is my choice.
    Thanks a bunch
    EU subscriber

  • petergigov says:

    There are two fragrances in your Best of Winter list I’m familiar with Noir de Noir Tom Ford , and Trayee Neela Vermeire Créations.
    Noir de Noir is date time fragrance only for me , both romantic and seductive
    Trayee in my opinion is multifaceted resinous fragrance, with incense, ginger and unlike Michelyn and Steven cassis is also available in the composition.
    Tea and fresh ginger, with rose wrapped in suede? Jaipur Chai sounds quite nice
    My choice is Trayee
    Exciting giveaway, USA
    Regards

  • Adrian Hernandez says:

    Noir de Noir has always been my go to fragrance for winter. The chocolate, tube rose and patchouli combo is amazing in the cold air. It’s a fragrance that only works during colder months and gets worn daily