State Of Mind Fanfarone Italiano (Karine Dubreuil) 2023 + Bold, Daring and Rebellious Giveaway

State of Mind Fanfarone Italiano

State of Mind Fanfarone Italiano by Karl©

As a lover of luxurious perfumes, I was thrilled to discover State of Mind’s Fanfarone Italiano perfume at Esxence in Milan this year (My Best of Show). This sumptuous scent has captured my attention and senses with its unique blend that brings a rebellious and daring attitude to the forefront.

Sophia Loren drinking coffee

Sophia Loren collage courtesy of State of Mind

The story behind the creation of this fragrance is just as fascinating as the scent itself. The perfume was based around the embodiment of the Italian way of life and who better than Sophia Loren to be the inspiration. Catherine Laskine Balandina, the founder of State of Mind, is a true rebel who has never shied away from breaking the rules. When she set out to create a perfume, she wanted to bring her rebellious attitude to life through a unique blend of scents. To achieve this, she chose none other than the talented perfumer Karine Dubreuil.

Catherine Laskine Balandina of The State of Mind

Image of Catherine Laskine-Balandina courtesy of the brand

Karine Dubreuil Sereni is a renowned perfumer who has worked with some of the biggest names in the fragrance industry ((she  is the nose for many designer, luxury and niche perfumes including  the iconic L’Artisan Parfumeur Mûre Et Musc Extrême). Her experience and expertise were evident in every whiff of State of Mind Fanfarone Italiano. The blend of blackcurrant, cognac, cashmeran, and tonka was nothing short of sublime. The addition of a coffee note ingredient was a surprise, but it worked beautifully with the other scents.

What I love about Fanfarone Italiano is how it is different from any other perfume I have tried from State Of Mind  It is bold, daring, and rebellious, just like the woman who created it. The blackcurrant note brings a tartness that is balanced out by the warmth of the cognac. The Cashmeran note adds a touch of sophistication, while the tonka, chocolate and walnut alcohol provides a sweetness that rounds out the blend.

Perfume notes for Fanfarone Italiano

 fragrance notes courtesy of State of Mind

But it is the coffee note that really sets State of Mind Fanfarone Italiano apart. It is not often that you find a perfume that incorporates a realistic coffee note, but it works perfectly in this blend. The coffee brings a unique bitterness that contrasts with the sweetness of the other ingredients. It is a scent that is perfect for someone who wants to make a statement and stand out from the crowd.

The perfume also comes in a beautiful bottle that looks like a work of art. The Art Deco Tearoom design is inspired by Catherine Laskine-Balandina’s love of the Art Deco era. The bottle is sleek and elegant, and it is a true reflection of the rebellious attitude that the perfume embodies.

State of Mind Fanfarone Italiano is a perfume for anyone who loves unique, daring scents; it is slightly tart, a touch boozy and subtly gourmand. The rebellious attitude of Catherine Laskine-Balandina is evident in every aspect of this perfume, from the choice of perfumer to the unique blend of ingredients. Karine Dubreuil has truly outdone herself with this fragrance, and the addition of the coffee note is a beautiful touch. The bottle is a work of art that is a true reflection of the rebellious spirit of the perfume. If you are looking for a scent that will make a statement, Fanfarone Italiano could be the perfect choice.

Notes: Blackcurrant, Blackcurrant bud, Neroli, Orange Peel, Chocolate, Coffee, Tonka, Cashmeran, Cocoa, Vanilla, Cognac, Walnut Alcohol, Amber.

Karl Topham UK Ambassador & Senior Editor

State of Mind Fanfarone Italiano 2023

Image of State of Mind Fanfarone Italiano by brand

Thanks to the generosity of State of Mind we have a100 ml bottle of State of Mind Fanfarone Italiano for one registered reader in the EU, USA, UK, UAE. You must register or your entry will not count. To be eligible, please leave a comment saying what you find most interesting based on Karl’s review and where you live. Draw closes 5/19/23.

Please read Karl’s review of State of Mind Secret of Success here.

State of Mind Secret of Success was a 2018 Finalist in the Russian FIFI awards

Tea and Coffee fans will enjoy their branded offerings as well as their candles and diffusers

Follow us on Instagram @cafleurebonoffical @karl.topham @stateofmind.fr

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59 comments

  • castlemicro says:

    Hello from Florida, and thanks to Karl for the review!
    Any perfume that captures even a bit of Sophia Loren’s essence would be a wonderful success, so Fanfarone Italiano definitely seems worth a try.

  • sjmin209 says:

    Coffee, I find, is a difficult note to pull off, but this sounds like a unique application. I look forward to trying this. In the USA.

  • Sorohan Adriana says:

    The bottle is a work of art that is a true reflection of the rebellious spirit of the perfume in resonance with the creator’s obsession with the coffee note. The review made me want an Italian coffee. I am from EU

  • Arron_Q says:

    I absolutely love the trio of cashmeran, tonka, and vanilla. Throwing cognac and coffee into that mix sounds wonderfully delicious. I had not heard of this house before the Exscence blurbs and blogs came around this year. It sounds like an interesting house. I love a bold and daring scent and according to Karl’s report, this one ticks those boxes. I have yet to find a coffee fragrance that I truly love. I have tried several with very realistic coffee notes (e.g., Follow and Followed by Kerosene), and while I found the coffee to be gorgeous, it was just too overpowering for me. I want something where it is noticeable but doesn’t take over the composition. This sounds like it would fit that bill but there’s only one way to really find out. I live in NC, USA.

  • Iuno Feronia says:

    Coffee, Cognac, Chocolate, Amber, what a nice mix of scents. I would love to geht a sniff of this warm but als Bitter perfume.thanks for the draw, I would like to ein a bettle.

  • Jeremi says:

    I found the notes of this extraordinary fragrance the most interesting because they are really fascinating and I’m very interested how all of them make the whole fragrance experience. I live in Trzebnica, Poland, EU.

  • RonaldProkes17 says:

    Thank you, Karl for this wonderful review.
    I love the idea of being inspired by Sophia Loren. She was my mom’s favorite actress and would love to smell how this influence comes through in the perfume. I also love the combination of orange with chocolate and cognac – sounds like such a boozy and enticing concoction. It sounds comforting, classy and a little rebellious at the same time. And definitely unique!

    California, USA.

  • INYA says:

    On my wishlist it goes! I do enjoy coffee, chocolate and tonka, so Fanfarone Italiano sounds fabulous. And it seems like it would be a unisex fragrance. I like that Sophia Loren was the inspiration behind it. Thanks for another awesome article and draw. Mich USA

  • rmsssss says:

    I love the aroma of coffee but it is so rare to find a realistic coffee note in a perfume. Karl’s description of how the bitterness of the coffee note in Fanfarone Italiano balances the sweeter notes sounds wonderful! I’d love to win a bottle. I’m in MN, USA.

  • ElenaChiss says:

    I am always up for a cup of coffee and, why not, a perfume centered around this wonderful gift of nature. Please count me in. Thanks!

  • Dubaiscents says:

    I haven’t had the opportunity to try this house but, Karl’s review makes me want to seek them out. I love a great coffee note and the use of walnut is unusual. It all seems truly Italian! US

  • FC says:

    Fanfarone Italiono is quite different from other fragrances from State of Mind, with a realistic coffee note as well as blackcurrant note that is balanced out by cognac. I am in US.

  • Johnmichael02302 says:

    This note breakdown looks heavenly! Best in show too? Oh man count me in! I live in Boston, Massachusetts USA.

  • Amaziz89 says:

    Karine Dubreuil has truly outdone herself with this fragrance, and the addition of the coffee note is a beautiful touch. The bottle is a work of art that is a true reflection of the rebellious spirit of the perfume. If you are looking for a scent that will make a statement, Fanfarone Italiano could be the perfect choice.

    Notes: Blackcurrant, Blackcurrant bud, Neroli, Orange Peel, Chocolate, Coffee, Tonka, Cashmeran, Cocoa, Vanilla, Cognac, Walnut Alcohol, Amber. High praise from Karl had really piqued my interest because I love Gourmand notes and this sounds like a something right up my street. The notes sound delectable and sumptuous. Thanks a million from the UK

  • Ozzyaziz says:

    If you are looking for a scent that will make a statement, Fanfarone Italiano could be the perfect choice.

    Notes: Blackcurrant, Blackcurrant bud, Neroli, Orange Peel, Chocolate, Coffee, Tonka, Cashmeran, Cocoa, Vanilla, Cognac, Walnut Alcohol, Amber. I am fascinated by the notes especially Coffee, Chocolate, Orange peel, Cocoa, Vanilla and Cognac this sounds like a magical concoction just perfect for a Gourmand lover. A beautiful review by Karl has definitely got me curious and interested to find out more about this house. Thanks a lot from the UK

  • Deso says:

    A rebellious gourmand with blackcurrent, cognac and chocolate notes sounds perfect. The inspiration from Italian way of life and Sophia Loren is interesting. From EU.

  • Scentsational Exchange says:

    Based on Karl’s review, one of the most interesting aspects of State of Mind`s Fanfarone Italiano perfume is its unique blend of notes, particularly the inclusion of a coffee note, which is not often found in perfumes. Karl also masterfully highlights the rebellious and daring attitude of the perfume, which is reflected in its Art Deco Tearoom bottle design inspired by Catherine Laskine-Balandina’s love for the Art Deco era. The expertise of the perfumer, Karine Dubreuil Sereni, and the use of high-quality ingredients also contribute to the appeal of this fragrance.

    I live in Germany.

  • starsnek says:

    I am so fascinated by perfumes with a realistic coffee note. I am crossing my fingers that I win this one. Hello from Hawaii, USA!

  • meeps says:

    Blackcurrant, cognac and coffee sound like an incredible start to an artisan cocktail. I would love to smell this scent! From California

  • olgAPOISON says:

    Boozy choco-coffee? Sign me up! This is a lovely review. This scent feels Like it does it in a New way. Im from eu

  • TravisO says:

    This sounds like a winner!

    Boozy Coffee Gourmand and unique in its own way. Just like the timeless Sophia Loren this sounds beautifully done.

    Thanks for the giveaway from the USA

  • joshuabrian says:

    Thanks for an introduction to this brand. This sounds fantastic. I don’t have any fragrance that seems like it would smell remotely close to this. Thanks for the opportunity. From USA.

  • izabella says:

    I have been searching for a realistic coffee centered composition lately and haven’t found something quite right (the best I’ve found yet was Akkro Awake), anyway the combination of coffee and walnuts especially, and all the other gourmand accords is indeed very alluring and quite unique. Love the Italian craftsmanship, they are true artisans (eg. another great Italian perfume house, perhaps less known is Bois 1920, would love to hear more about their perfumes from reviewers). What I appreciate most in the article above is the praise given to the perfumer. After all where would we be without all the wonderfully creative Noses? Would love to try Karine Dubreuil’s masterpiece.
    Izabella, from Romania, Europe.

  • Ken White says:

    You had me a luxurious! The note breakdown is exactly what I’m looking for. I can smell it now! New Jersey, USA

  • Steve A says:

    What I find most interesting is this perfume is described as, ” bold, daring, and rebellious”. US

  • Nikolina_84 says:

    As a coffee addict, both in a cup and in perfumes, I find Karl’s description very appealing: “… it is the coffee note that really sets State of Mind Fanfarone Italiano apart. It is not often that you find a perfume that incorporates a realistic coffee note, but it works perfectly in this blend. The coffee brings a unique bitterness that contrasts with the sweetness of the other ingredients.”
    Hugs from EU

  • AromaDulce73 says:

    Seems like this would lean feminine but that coffee note has me intrigued.

    “Karine Dubreuil has truly outdone herself with this fragrance, and the addition of the coffee note is a beautiful touch.”

    Don’t mind getting my nose on this one.

    Los Angeles California USA

  • johnmadison says:

    Thank you for the review, Karl!
    Wow, would I love to get my nose on this one. Standing out from the crowd is one of the main reasons I love and wear fragrance and when something rebellious happens in perfume I tend to gravitate towards its bouquet. I so love coffee as a note and the realistic coffee note paired with blackcurrant, tonka, cashmeran, and cognac sounds divine.
    I am such a fan of daring scents and I would be so proud to have this in my collection. Tart, boozy and slightly gourmand are all things in which I adore in a perfume. Bravo!
    John – Minnesota, USA

  • Alen says:

    Just like the other people from the most of the comments are saying, the pyramid notes works like a magnet for me, u have some boozy, some neroli/orange touch, vanilla and coffee, sounds amazing especially after u read the description in Karl’s review. I would love to try this, thanks for the chance, i’m in the EU.

  • Tveta says:

    Sounds right up my alley ‘The coffee brings a unique bitterness that contrasts with the sweetness of the other ingredients. It is a scent that is perfect for someone who wants to make a statement and stand out from the crowd.’
    I do not have much experience with coffee based fragrances, so I am really curious about it.
    Thanks

  • JulieeCee says:

    Karl does a great job describing the uniqueness and boldness of Fanfarone Italiano by State of Mind. I feel like I wouldn’t be living my life right if I don’t get to experience it. 🙂 🙂
    In the U.S.A.

  • Salem says:

    I am so embarrassed to admit I have never heard of State of Mind before! Seems like a house that more than deserves to be checked out. Fanfarone italiano promises uniqueness from so many points of view, starting with the name and until the mélange of notes, special yet, according to Karl, harmonious and even brilliant: I am particularly intrigued by the coffee note, one of my favorites in perfumery and everyday life, and also very curious about the cashmeran, black currant and cognac blending with it.
    I live in the EU.
    Thanks for the draw!

  • Trinity33 says:

    Coffee intensive fragrances are my most favorite gourmand. Fanfarone Italiano sounds like a perfect cup of chocolately espresso with a shot of cognac and a fruit and nut studded biscotti on the side. The composition does seem bold and as Karl noted, the bottle is a work of art. MD, USA.

  • Iuno Feronia says:

    Coffee, Cognac, Chocolate, Amber, what a nice mix of scents. I would love to geht a sniff of this warm but als Bitter perfume.thanks for the draw, I would like to win a bottle, I live in the EU.

  • yana says:

    Sounds like a delicious mix with blackcurrant, coffee, chocolate and vanilla. Any perfume which promises the glamour of Sophia Loren is intriguing. I also enjoyed the previous review as the Art Deco aesthetic and Tamara Lempicka’s paintings are such fabulous inspiration for scent. I’m in the UK

  • Sonbahia says:

    Thanks Karl for your review! It is my first encounter with State of Mind brand and I love it even it is digital by now. I love the idea of building a luxurious perfume around the Italian way of life and building it around the figure of Sophia Loren a challenge but as Mme. Dubreuil is so talented (I have and enjoy her Molton Brown Bizarre Brandy where the touch is in tobacco and here seems to be in coffee).State Of Mind seems to be bold and daring: tart opening, then cognac warm and choco-tonka sweet. The magic touch here resides in italian coffee: very realistic here with the typical bitterness of a ristretto. Loud scent not for shy skins! Amazing boozy gourmand in a , as you say, beautiful flask. I live in Spain, EU.

  • Dazi83 says:

    This sounds really really amazing, thank you Karl for the brilliant review! I like how he experiences this scent – it captured his attention and senses with its unique blend that brings a bold, rebellious and daring attitude to the forefront with an interesting blend of blackcurrant, cognac, cashmeran and tonka. “If you are looking for a scent that will make a statement, Fanfarone Italiano could be the perfect choice.”
    EU

  • Sngash says:

    My interest was piqued on reading that Karine Dubreuil Sereni was the perfumer selected to create State of Mind Fanfarone Italiano. I’m a lover of L’Artisan Parfumeur Mûre Et Musc Extrême which became my favorite from that house despite initially thinking Timbuktu would carry the day. State of Mind Fanfarone Italiano promises to be a daring beauty. I’m in USA

  • Uncle1979 says:

    I don’t think I’ve ever heard of State of Mind house before, I like the idea of having fragrances leaving you with the impression of drinking tea , or coffee.
    As a Pastry Chef I love well made gourmands , coffee, and coffee desserts, and I’m glad Fanfarone Italiano is sophisticated beauty , but I’m not sure what Karl meant by “realistic coffee note” ? The aroma of freshly brewed espresso , ristretto or grounded coffee maybe?!?
    Whatever it is, the fragrance sounds fantastic, almost like being in Naples, eating Crème de Cassis Chocolate Cake drizzled with cognac, and drinking ristretto…amazing !!!
    Appreciate the review, learning about State of Mind house, and the giveaway campaign
    USA

  • BigMickyD says:

    I am certainly intrigued by the notes listed, and would absolutely love to add this fragrance to my collection. Coffee is a note often misinterpreted or “cheapened up” in fragrance, so I am glad to hear that this one captures the smell of coffee in a faithful way. I live in Sweden.

  • KJErtet says:

    What an awesome review Karl.
    I remember reading about secrets of success in your report on esxcence and was hoping there would be more about ithe brand

  • RonaldJ says:

    Thanks for the article Karl!

    Whilst I’ve only experienced Italy in Summer, I absolutely love the Italian Way of Life. Well dressed, clean and quite sensual. I expect Fanfarone Italiano to smell exactly like this and Sophia Loren was a brilliant choice for inspiration.

    I would love to try this and engulf myself in the good life!

    Greetings from the UK!

  • WaltherP99 says:

    Sophia Loren is a legendary actress , no wonder there’s a fragrance inspired by her ,and her modus vivendi .
    I’m familiar with all previous State of Mind fragrances, I bought the sample set directly from their website. Fanfarone Italiano is the first coffee based fragrance by the brand, all others are centered around tea.
    If I have to rate my favorite ones:
    1. Spontaneous Generosity
    2. Modern Nomad
    3. Secret of Success
    Coffee, cognac, cassis, orange peel and rebellious and passionate atmosphere, Fanfarone Italiano is Italian to its core.

    “Karine Dubreuil Sereni is a renowned perfumer who has worked with some of the biggest names in the fragrance industry ((she is the nose for many designer, luxury and niche perfumes including the iconic L’Artisan Parfumeur Mûre Et Musc Extrême).”

    To me by far her most famous creation is the sadly discontinued Gucci Pour Homme II, going for well over $300 on Ebay now.
    All profiles I already follow, including @karinedubreulsereni , and @catherinelaskinebalandina , @waltherp99bg
    Thanks a lot
    USA

  • Torax says:

    Great review by Karl here.
    State of Mind really create masterpieces. I have tried Butterfly Mind and it was mindblowing, to say something.
    I think that Fanfarone is surely a great fragrance because of the blackcurrant, mixed with the cognac notes. I would love to try it soon. Also I love that it is inspired by the italian way of life.
    USA here.

  • petergigov says:

    I was not expecting such a unique gourmand , and the festive review from Karl , I read the whole thing 3 times in a row.
    Laid back approach present in Fanfarone Italiano is so typical for most Italians, and also Spaniards.
    The universal and rebellious message in the fragrance is quite clear , you should be enjoying life way more , drink ristretto , cognac , and don’t worry oneself .
    Fanfarone Italiano draws me in immensely
    Overly exciting giveaway, USA
    Regards

  • chki says:

    A bold coffee scent with fruit and liquor notes supporting it is very interesting. Take that style but using a legend like Ms. Loren as it’s inspiration? It should be quite spicy too then. US-CA.

  • dLin says:

    Thank you Karl for the in depth review of Fanfarone Italiano. The coffee note within this fragrance sounds incredible when mixed with the orange and boozy notes. It was interesting hearing about blackcurrant, as being from the United States blackcurrant isn’t really accessible, but from the review it seems to add an extra layer of depth the the overall fragrance.

    TX, USA

  • foreverscents says:

    I love daring scents inspired and created by strong women. I can’t think of a better inspiration than Sophia Loren. I love that there is a bitter coffee note that blends so well with the sweeter tonka and cashmeran notes. The sleek and elegant art deco bottle of Fanfarone Italiano is just the perfect complement for this amazing fragrance.
    I live in the USA.

  • Caliwas says:

    Beautiful review by Karl of State of Mind* Fanfarone. As a coffee lover this is what interested me the most. An unique coffee gourmand that’s not too sweet boozy and is bold and rebellious. Thanks for the opportunity. Greetings from the USA!

  • Parfumista says:

    Hello!
    That is so true that it’s rare to find a coffee-centered perfume that is gourmand but yet fine and not sweetly overwhelming.
    The perfume description itself is presented in a very particular way through the nature of the Nose and the Brand owner: there’s the point in it as an artisanal nature of a piece of art is inseparable, indeed.
    Thanks for the review and greetings from Switzerland!

  • Regis Monkton says:

    I’ve read a lot of reviews from Karl, and I’m under the impression that he and I have similar taste in fragrances, so if he says that “Fanfarone Italiano” was his best in show, then I’m very intrigued to try this one. I can enjoy coffee-centric fragrances, and this one seems like it might be one of the best. I live in the U.S.A.

  • Gig84 says:

    I’m new to State of Mind . What I find intriguing in Karl Topham work , is how he looked at Fanfarone Italianofrom a few different angles, the artistic one with Sophia Loren, the coffee one , and warm Italian one.
    I also like the complexity of the fragrance, and how different the opening and the base are.
    The coffee, cognac and the orange peel are the notes I’m looking for the most.
    Thanks for the draw
    USA

  • IvanVelikov says:

    I do have a good feeling about State of Mind fragrances. Catherine Laskine Balandina and her brand i think represents the beauty , passion, lust , and sensuality of Italian man, and women.
    The balance between the notes i find appealing, Fanfarone Italiano is not just boozy coffee fragrance, there’s also chocolate and blackcurrant , and high level of sophistication too.
    I’d pair up with Light Coffee Herringbone Three Piece Suit .
    Thank you Karl Topham , Catherine Laskine Balandina , State of Mind
    USA

  • mmerline says:

    Fanfarone Italiano features such an unusual combination of notes! The balance of boozy heat, tart fruit, and sweet gourmand facets against realistic coffee sounds rich, textured, and compelling.

    I’m in the USA.

  • Grethel says:

    Hello from USA, it just sounds delicious, I’m intrigued. Also the presentation.. wow.

  • Phillip_Barkley says:

    I’ll look for points of sale in Paris for State of Mind fragrances, or I should visit their boutique.
    Italian or French, or maybe something in between, Fanfarone Italiano sounds like dessert for high end Parisian Boulangerie, not too sweet, bot too boozy , defiance and perfume at once. Like Mr Topham said the bottle is like a piece of art , and as a jeweler I agree with him.
    Thank you, American living in Paris France
    USA

  • Bubeto_GG says:

    Italians truly their country , cherish Italian culture, and are proud of their heritage, I love it. Maybe that’s the emotions Catherine Laskine-Balandina tried to encapture? I need to know all about Fanfarone Italiano,and State Of Mind , i need a sample set.
    I can’t go wrong with such a beauty , I’m a fan of sweet coffee-boozy-festive fragrances.
    I’ll treat myself with Cognac XO Grande and some walnuts , cheers and thank you for the opportunity
    USA
    …..
    Pretty please … count me in !

  • Michael Prince says:

    I loved Karl’s review of State of Mind Fanfarone Italiano is the unique and bitter coffee note contrasting with the sweetness of Chocolate and Vanilla. I love other gourmand elements with that bitter orange peel and boozy facet of Cognac. I love the unique and beautiful creations Catherine the founder of State of Mind fragrances has came up with. I am from the USA.

  • wallygator88 says:

    Thanks for the great writeup Karl.

    I love fragrance with coffee and often find that the note is either not strong enough or is just fleeting, both of which have to do with the way the coffee EO is extracted. I’m generally not a fan of sweet fragrances and I do love how the coffee is a bitter foil for this.

    I’m quite curious to figure out what the Walnut Alcohol note is.

    Cheers from WI, USA