CLIVE CHRISTIAN
Noble XXI: Art Deco – Blonde Amber

2022

Cardamom
Bitter Orange
Rum
frankincense
Ginger
Pink Pepper
Bergamot
Grapefruit

Dried Fruits
White Tobacco
Tuberose
Sandalwood
Saffron
Osmanthus
Jasmine
Orris

Tonka Bean
Labdanum
Myrrh
Vetiver
Patchouli
Cedarwood
Vanilla
Musk

Blonde Amber seems to be one of the best-received releases by Clive Christian in recent years and I think rightfully so. I’d tried it in stores several times and it was a stand-out for that day every time. Now, after giving it a full wearing, I can confirm that Blonde Amber is up there my favorites from the house, arguably my favorite, but it’s not as cozy and ‘blonde’ as I remember expecting based on smelling it briefly.

This is not a fragrance that is as simple or straightforward as many others are. Is it an amber? Sure. But it’s also a strong patchouli, boozy, spicy and I think for some people, surprisingly floral when you zoom in. What it’s not to my mind at all, is blonde. Instead, this is rather dark, earthy and dense. From my collection, I think it reminds me most of Xerjoff Iommi with it’s sweet patchouli mix.

You get the dried fruits, resins and a spice bazar. The spices aren’t dry though, the whole thing feels rather thick and moist. It makes me think of a more woody take on Serge Lutens Arabie at some points of the wear.

And that’s I guess the dichotomy that Blonde Amber presents. On one hand a super sweet, almost candied vibe. Some have mentioned bubblegummy in their reviews. And on the other hand the dark earthy woods, booze, resinous texture. It’s like marrying a sweet designer to a hefty Middle Eastern fragrance. And it works really well.