Commodity Velvet Bold Review (Jerome Epinette) + A Wild Ride Draw

Commodity Velvet Rose Bold

Commodity Velvet Bold collage by Rachel (unsplash)

I admit, I have never driven or even ridden on a motorcycle.  I think I might be more of Vespa type of girl but even that I have not attempted.  However, when I first smelled Commodity’s Velvet fragrance, it was as if I donned my helmet, a well-worn black leather jacket and hit the open road.  No, Velvet is not a leather scent it is just that despite the name, it seems more dangerous and adventurous than soft and lush.

Velvet was composed by master perfumer Jerome Epinette, who has amassed over a hundred scents to his name including several from Floral Street, Vilhelm Parfumerie, Atelier Cologne and Byredo, to name just a few.

“For Commodity Velvet, I was inspired by the image of vibrant pink Turkish Rose Petals floating gently over a mysterious, dark background of richly warm vanilla and black amber with a delicious touch of roasted almond drifting in the air.” – Jerome Epinette

Jerome Epinette

Jerome Epinette courtesy of Robertet

I had the pleasure of trying the “Bold” version of Velvet which, as I mentioned in my recent review of Milk, Commodity Fragrances brand “re-founder”, Vicken Arslanian (founder and President of Europerfumes) explained, “each Commodity fragrance is available in three different Scent Space concentrations: Personal, Expressive, and Bold.”  With my propensity towards stronger and more intense fragrances, this is the perfect option.

Flaming Rose apped by Michelyn

 Commodity Velvet Bold has deep notes of vanilla, rose and amber which are even darker than the original with an overdose of patchouli and labdanum. Dark and dense it certainly is. When I wear Commodity Velvet Bold I notice the spicy labdanum as well as a dark and dirty patchouli almost immediately.  It is as if I just rode my motorcycle out in the woods to a clearing where my friends have a roaring bonfire going strong. The rose note is there but, it is not dewy and sweet, but flaming and mixed with a scorched vanilla amber.   Commodity Velvet Bold has a comforting side with almond and hints of coconut mixing with the smoke.  Velvet envelops you but is not overpowering.

I may not be ready to hit the road on my motorcycle just yet but, I can always wear Commodity Velvet Bold to boost my confidence and unleash my metaphorical alter ego.

Disclaimer: I would like to thank Europerfumes and Commodity “re-founder” Vicken Arslanian for the beautiful bottle of Commodity Velvet Bold.  My opinions are my own.

 Rachel Watson, Senior Contributor

Commodity Velvet by Jerome Epinette was first released in 2018 with notes of: white birch, coconut water, vanilla, amber, roasted almonds, rose petals, patchouli and labdanum.

Commodity Velvet review

Velvet Bold By Rachel and unsplash

Thanks to the generosity of Europerfumes, the owner of Commodity Fragrances, we have a 100ml bottle of Commodity Velvet Bold for one registered reader in the USA only. You must register or your entry will not count. To be eligible, please leave a comment saying what sparks your interest about Rachel’s review and your favorite Commodity Fragrance. Draw closes 1/8/2022

Available only on Commodity Fragrances website.

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33 comments

  • Love the original Velvet and got an opportunity to test out the Bold version. Gorgeous!!!! Really loved Rachel’s description “It is as if I just rode my motorcycle out in the woods to a clearing where my friends have a roaring bonfire going strong.” I absolutely love Commodity fragrances and would love to own the Bold version of Velvet. My favorite fragrance that I currently own is Book.

    I live in the USA.

  • I purchased a decant of Velvet from a subscription service last year. At first, I found it problematic. My nose always picks up on smoke notes and I had trouble with them. But I kept trying it and now it is one of my absolute favorites in my wardrobe for the winter. I’ve come to crave the smoke and roses. It’s like wrapping up in a blanket for me now. Hearing Rachel describe the bold version as dangerous with “scorched vanilla amber” is so intriguing. I would be VERY interested in comparing the two versions!

    I live in the US.

  • I too am often drawn to the bold, dark, and mysterious when it comes to scents. This review really brings to mind the feel of a velvety expression of scent, and I’d love to experience it! I’m in Houston, TX

  • What sparks my interest from Rachel’s review is that this fragrance makes Rachel invision riding motorcycles and bonfires. Also the bold intensity is right up my alley because of I love a fragrance I want to be able to smell it strong. This sounds like a good fragrance for cold weather from her description. Also how she described the rose as being flaming and mixed with scorched amber vanilla. I am a big time amber and vanilla fan and the word scorched being used has me intrigued. Amber and vanilla as Rachel said normally have a cozy appeal that I adore especially in the winter. The only fragrance I have tried from commodity so far is gold but I really love it. I would love to try this fragrance thank you for the draw.

    USA, North Carolina

  • Nectar is my favorite but velvet sounds great
    I like how there are three versions of the same fragrances

  • Rachel!! ❤️❤️ Thank you for a wonderful review! I also really enjoyed your review of Commodity Milk. I’ve heard lots & lots of great feedback about Milk, but this is the first I’ve heard about Velvet (CaFleureBon is always ahead of the curve!). I really like the idea of a scent that is dark, deep, and scorched for the cold winter months. ❤️ Thank you for a great review & this wonderful opportunity! USA

  • Rachel take on Commodity Commodity Velvet Bold instantly reminded me of making , and later eating the worldwide famous Kayk-e Eshgh , most commonly known as Persian love cake , and 2-3 hours ride on the highway to refresh my memory.
    I wish I had more time to ride , but I don’t.
    2021 Yamaha R6 is in my garage.
    Milk Expressive is my favorite Commodity fragrance.
    Appreciate the review, and the giveaway campaign.
    USA

  • As I read Rachel’s review, I found myself gritting my teeth. I am one that enjoys a rich dark fragrance this time of year. Vanilla, rose, and amber, stoked with an indulgence of patchouli and labdanum. I can’t help but think of Steppenwolf’s song, Born To Be Wild. Imagining myself on the long open road attached to a Harley. This fragrance feels reminiscent of the line in the song, “…fire all of your guns at once and explode them to space…” Very BOLD. Oh my goodness. I just got goosebumps thinking about it. This is a fragrance that will have to be added to my collection. Hopefully, the first bottle will be via this giveaway. Thank you for the opportunity. USA

  • My interest is in how the rose and vanilla work in something called velvet. I have tried a lot from Commodity, I enjoy ’em. US

  • I am a motorcycle passionate myself, so this fragrance would be awesome to try. Thank Rachel for your perception of this fragrance. Couldn’t be more curious to try it. Don’t worry, Vespas are nice way to try motorcycles ;).
    I live in the U.S.

  • Velvet bold sounds like the best version. Rachel’s review makes me want to ride a motorcycle and hang with friends around a bonfire. Definitely sounds like a gem. Thank you for this Chance. USA

  • I totally get the adventurous yet comforting feeling that Rachel describes. Reminds me of my younger days with a biker boyfriend. I am in the US.

  • I need a bottle of Commodity Moss Bold!! I never tried Velvet, but based on the review this sounds awesome! I love all of the notes in this one, especially labdanum. Thank you for the draw. I’m in the US.

  • Have not tested original Velvet, but this sound very beautiful- vanilla, rose. amber and overdose of patchouli !
    USA

  • Incidentally, Velvet has always been my favourite from Commodity. Clearly a take on MMM’s By the Fireplace but without that annoying drydown. Love that motorcycle ride to a campfire in the woods description. Basically bang on. Would love to experience the darker and heavier notes in the Bold version though. Sounds a bit rough-and-tumble. Just the way I like it. 😉 USA

  • I absolutely love dark bold fragrances so this sounds amazing. Rose, scorched vanilla and amber are a few of my favorite notes Rachel’s review really sets the tone and builds anticipation to experience this scent. Well done. Whiskey is my favorite from the house.

  • I have a few of the pre-Arslanian Commodity fragrances and I quite like their simplicity and universality. The separation of a fragrance into different sillages (personal, expressive and bold) is genius and helpful for those who prefer a stronger perfume. Rachel’s description of Commodity Velvet Bold as darker and denser than the original with a dose of patchouli is right up my alley. My favorite Commodity is Vetiver, MD, USA.

  • Love Commodity. Gold, Velvet, Book, Paper. Milk Bold is AMAZING. Would love to try Velvet Bold based on this review. In CA, USA.

  • Bryant Worley says:

    What sparks my interest is the inclusion of the perfumer’s inspiration:”For Commodity Velvet, I was inspired by the image of vibrant pink Turkish Rose Petals floating gently over a mysterious, dark background of richly warm vanilla and black amber with a delicious touch of roasted almond drifting in the air.”), as well as her description of the fragrance, and her wearing experience.

    As I have no direct Commodity experience, I don’t have a favorite. I have seen and read reviews, though, and from that the ones I want to experience are: Wool, Gold, Book, Moss, and W*****y.

    I live in Waldorf, Maryland, USA.

  • I must admit, I do miss those motorcycle rides, lol. I’m drawn to the bold rose and scorched vanilla amber notes. Sounds very unisexy. One of my favs from Commodity is Whiskey. Thanks for another awesome article and draw. Mich USA

  • I enjoyed Rachel’s description of Commodity Velvet Bold perfume in how it can boost one’s confidence as a go-getter. It is also nice to learn that the perfume comes in three different flavors, to suit one’s mood (after all, sometimes too much confidence can be dangerous !!). Love the notes. I think I would love the Bold version the best. Haven’t tried any perfumes by this brand, yet, so no favorites. Thanks for a generous draw and review. From USA.

  • I appreciate Rachel’s explanation about the different commodity fragrances- personal, expressive and bold. The combination of notes like rose, amber, vanilla and patchouli sound exciting to me. I have heard a lot about Commodity fragrances but I have not tried any yet.
    Maryland, US

  • Michael Prince says:

    What sparks my interest about Rachel’s review is her metaphorical motorcycle ride based on her experience of Commodity Velvet Edition Bold which increases the intensity of the notes and darkens the composition from a smooth and subtle Velvet to a Bold, Dark, and resinous Rose with Labdanumn and Incense, a delectable Roasted Almond and hint of Coconut sweetness this fragrance sounds absolutely perfect. My favorite Commodity fragrance is Tonka. I am from Ohio, USA.

  • I am certainly not a motorcycle biker either (although I often romanticize about it whenever I see a chopper on the road) but I can certainly relate to Rachel’s sentiments about this fragrance. Those types of fragrances that are transportive or make you feel like you belong in another time, location, or activity are some of my favorites. I enjoy how fragrance is such a fantastic medium for blending realities like this. Commodity is a fragrance house to at I’ve seen quite a bit out in the community but unfortunately not one I’ve had the chance to get my nose on. The Velvet line, in particular, I’ve seen on YouTube via B from Big Beard Business. The fact that he himself describes it as “sexy” certainly had me interested before and this just further drives the point home for me. I would love the chance to find out for myself so thanks for the opportunity! Cheers from Illinois!

  • Commodity “one fragrance, in 3 different concentrations” concept i personally like. Pick what you like, and suits you.
    I’ve always been into bikes , I see the relationship with the new Velvet + .
    The fragrance is the biggest departure from the original, compared to all other “original vs Bold” Commodity fragrances . It’s darker, less sweeter , and smokiness is present. Just because you like Velvet doesn’t necessary mean you’ll find Velvet + attractive, or vice versa. Try before you buy
    My favorite Commodity fragrances are
    1. Whiskey huge fan, sadly it’s discontinued
    2. Velvet/+
    3. Wool
    All profiles I already follow
    Thanks a lot
    USA

  • ThePinkPigeon says:

    Jerome Epinette is amazing and I was a bit surprised to find that Commodity was still around (my old preference used to be “book” a few years ago. I’m in the U.S.

  • I’ve certainly heard of the fragrance company Commodity, but I still haven’t had a chance yet to try any of their fragrance releases. I’d like to try this one for different reasons, especially the “Bold” version of it. I can enjoy vanillic/amber fragrances which would include rose. I can also enjoy patchouli and labdanum in fragrances. I live in the U.S.A. Thanks for the giveaway opportunity.

  • wallygator88 says:

    Thanks for the great review Rachel.

    The Commodity story has been one that I’ve been following for a while. I especially like the concept of offering fragrances in three different presentations.

    Rachel’s review expresses the darkness of notes that one would otherwise be identified as gourmand and cozy. It’s quite interesting to see vaniila, rose, amber and coconut water being used in conjunction with patchouli and labdanum to create a dark and brooding fragrance. It certainly would be interesting to try this fragrance in the three different forms.

    I enjoy Commodity Orris a lot (from the OG Commodity Frag)

    Cheers from WI, USA

  • There’s time and place for fragrances like Commodity Velvet Bold . Not every fragrance should be easy to wear, and pleasing.
    Casual cozy, slightly darker scent for a chilly days, meet up with friends at the local cafeteria. My opinion of Commodity Velvet Bold
    I’m looking for a new sport bike , and I also have 18′ Yamaha YZF 250
    Nice giveaway, USA
    Regards

  • IvanVelikov says:

    Commodity Velvet Bold is a blast of resins, dampy patchouli, vanilla and amber, I like it.
    On the road again, well at least when the weather allows it . I love bikes.
    I have not smelled Commodity Fragrances before.
    Thank you Rachel, and Europerfumes
    USA

  • “For Commodity Velvet, I was inspired by the image of vibrant pink Turkish Rose Petals floating gently over a mysterious, dark background of richly warm vanilla and black amber with a delicious touch of roasted almond drifting in the air.” – Jerome Epinette
    Such a tempting description, by one of the best perfumers .
    Ormonde Jayne have a similar policy, so the idea of a fragrance in different perfume concentration in not new , but Commodity and Europerfumes are implementing it in more easily obtainable ways.
    I have two Commodity Fragrances, Bergamot and Whiskey , old bottles i bought a while back .
    Thanks for the draw
    USA

  • Velvet Bold i think will suit me well, u had Vespa as a teen , and since I can remember I’ve been a Biker Girl, team Ducati , Panigale V2 and Monster 900s are my proud possessions .
    Commodity Book i known well , because it’s one of my fathers favorite fragrances. It could be because of my father is wearing it , but i think about well groomed , and dressed guys in their late 50s , with an old book in their hands.
    Thank you for the opportunity
    USA

  • sephrenia300 says:

    Really interesting review! What sparks my interest about Rachel’s review is her description of Velvet as much more dangerous and adventurous despite it’s plush and luxurious name, and that it inspires her more to think about riding a motorcycle and hitting the road than curling up with a cozy blanket. I love that Velvet Bold is much deeper and darker, dense, with spicy labdanum and dirty , as that is much more my style. Like Rachel, I have never driven a motorcycle either, but I definitely love a fragrance that embodies that badass attitude.

    My favorite Commodity fragrance that I’ve tried before is Rain, a gorgeous evocative fresh and floral fragrance. I live in the US.