Let’s face it, there’s something about the sweet, enveloping, warm embrace of vanilla in perfumery that will always turn heads and get compliments.
Both Andrew and myself agree; there are vanilla fragrances… then… there are Tom Ford vanilla fragrances.
We have already gone through several bottles of Tobacco Vanille and Noir Extreme, plus on one of our recent fragrance trips, we tested Vanille Fatale and Vanilla Sex, too.
Best Tom Ford Vanilla Perfumes
Sweet, seductive and crowd-pleasing, here is our take on the best Tom Ford vanilla perfumes for vanilla lovers everywhere.
1. Vanilla Sex Eau de Parfum
Review
Tom Ford’s creations stand out for their complexity, and Vanilla Sex Eau de Parfum, launched in 2023, offers a daring detour on the classic vanilla scent.
I found the opening surprising. The initial bitterness of almond essence gradually warms up, with only modest layers of milky vanilla in the heart.
Upon drying down, it finally settles into a smooth base of sandalwood and tonka absolute. Sadly, it smelled slightly artificial and not as rich as I had hoped.
Top Notes:
Bitter Almond Essence
Mid Notes:
Vanilla Tincture, Vanilla Absolute
Base Notes:
Sandalwood, Tonka Absolute
Seasons & Longevity
Lasting 5+ hours, I would say this fragrance is at its best during autumn, winter, and early spring. Wear from late afternoon onwards.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | Offers an unusual milky vanilla experience with a bitter almond twist. |
| Cons | Its distinct, milky aroma is not for those preferring a more decadent vanilla fragrance. |
2. Vanille Fatale Eau de Parfum
Review
Tom Ford’s Vanille Fatale is a masterpiece reinvented for 2024; it redefines the boundaries of vanilla perfumes and is similar to Dior Vanilla Diorama.
At first whiff, you’re greeted by the boldness of mahogany wood accord, which soon gives way to the unanticipated, smoky caress of roasted barley.
The base is where the true character of Vanille Fatale shines, with a vanilla aroma that’s both smoky and intoxicating. Classy stuff.
Top Notes:
Mahogany Wood Accord
Mid Notes:
Roasted Barley Orpur
Base Notes:
Vanilla Resinoid
Seasons & Longevity
Vanille Fatale is a rebel with a cause, perfect for those moments when you want to stand out. Its best moments come during autumn, winter and spring.
The performance? Exemplary at 7+ hours. It trails behind you like a mysterious shadow, making its presence known without overwhelming.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | A complex, smoky vanilla that offers an unexpected twist on traditional vanilla perfumes. |
| Cons | The intensity of the mahogany and barley notes can overshadow the vanilla. |
3. Tobacco Vanille Eau de Parfum
Review
With Tobacco Vanille, Tom Ford has outdone himself with this decadent and extravagant unisex vanilla-fest.
Seductive tobacco leaves and aromatic spices draw you into a world of vintage charm. Then, the plot thickens with a blast of sweet vanilla and tonka bean.
This fragrance stands out to me because of the delicious dried fruits in the dry-down; they literally make my mouth water!
Top Notes:
Tobacco Leaf, Aromatic Spices
Mid Notes:
Vanilla, Tonka Bean, Cocoa, Tobacco Blossom
Base Notes:
Wood Sap, Dried Fruits
Seasons & Longevity
Tobacco Vanille demands attention, making it perfect for winter’s embrace or the crisp evenings of fall.
Whether you’re in a smoky jazz club or wrapped up by the fireplace, this perfume will keep you company for 8+ hours with ease.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | Combines rich tobacco and sweet vanilla for a luxurious, comforting scent. |
| Cons | It can be a little overwhelming in close quarters or during warmer weather. |
4. Tom Ford Noir Extreme Eau de Parfum
Review
Tom Ford Noir Extreme Eau de Parfum is a sweet, warm, welcoming vanilla fragrance that constantly evolves as the hours pass.
Opening with a captivating blend of warm spices, Noir Extreme ushers you into a heart of creamy dessert indulgence of kulfi accord.
The journey concludes on a base of sumptuous vanilla and warming amber, leaving a trail of undeniable elegance and mystery.
Top Notes:
Mandarin oil, Neroli, Saffron, Cardamom, Nutmeg
Mid Notes:
Kulfi, Orange blossom, Jasmine, Rose, Mastic
Base Notes:
Vanilla, Sandalwood, Amber, Wood
Seasons & Longevity
We both wear Noir Extreme EDP as a dressy evening scent, ideal for those nights filled with intrigue… and cocktails!
It thrives in the cooler months of autumn, winter and early spring and lasts 8+ hours.
Benefits & Drawbacks
| Pros | Noir Extreme envelops you in an air of sophisticated warmth, perfect for captivating evenings. |
| Cons | The intense and rich blend may be too overpowering for daytime wear. |
Ingrid’s Top Pick
Noir Extreme Eau de Parfum
We both agree that the best Tom Ford vanilla perfume is Noir Extreme Eau de Parfum because the vanilla and Kulfi make delicious partnering notes and the added twist of cardamom and amber oozes class.
Just to add, the Noir Extreme Parfum version is available. However, the vanilla does not shine as much as in this stunning EDP version.
Conclusion
For us at Viora London, these are the best Tom Ford vanilla perfumes in the TF collection. Each fragrance offers its own unique take on vanilla but with an unmistakably Tom Ford twist.
Also Read: Best Tom Ford Perfumes For Women
Whether you’re looking for warmth, intrigue, or a touch of sweet rebellion, Tom Ford’s fragrance collection has a vanilla scent that will speak to you.
Also Read: 12 Best Tom Ford Fragrances For Men: Ultimate Guide
