Neroli, the exquisite essential oil derived from the blossoms of the bitter orange tree, injects an elegantly fresh, floral, and citrusy aroma to any fragrance.
This uplifting floral note captures the essence of spring and summer; neroli pairs exceptionally well with citrus, spice, vanilla and woody notes for contrast.
Several neroli-heavy fragrances launched this 2024 season, notably the fresh and powdery Zara Forbidden Pink and spicier Guerlain Neroli Plein Sud.
Best Neroli Perfumes
I’ve selected seven head-turning neroli-heavy perfumes, each embodying the charm and allure of this captivating floral note.
1. Essential Parfums Néroli Botanica
Review
Launched in 2024 and created by Anne Flippo, Néroli Botanica is a vibrant neroli scent with a spicy touch of ginger and warm resin. It is elegant and refreshing yet with a sensual undercurrent.
Top Notes:
Ginger, Pink & Black Pepper, Turmeric Leaf
Mid Notes:
Neroli, Orange Blossom, Jasmine
Base Notes:
Sandalwood, Vetiver, Benzoin
Seasons & Longevity
2. Guerlain Neroli Plein Sud
Review
Neroli Plein Sud from Guerlain offers a Mediterranean escape, combining the zesty floral freshness of neroli with vibrant spices such as ginger and cinnamon and a luxurious woody base.
Top Notes:
Turmeric, Ginger, Orange Bigarade
Mid Notes:
Neroli, Cinnamon, Clove
Base Notes:
Vetiver, Sandalwood, Saffron Accord
Seasons & Longevity
3. Montale Holy Neroli
Review
Heavenly neroli and bitter orange open this scent, followed by earthy patchouli and a soft, sensual, musk and vanilla finish. Holy Neroli from Montale is captivating.
Top Notes:
Neroli, Bitter Orange
Mid Notes:
Patchouli
Base Notes:
Vanilla, White Musk
Seasons & Longevity
4. Zara Forbidden Pink
Review
Playful neroli, powdery rose and orange petals, with a sweet, cosy base of vanilla and tonka bean. Forbidden Pink is an enchanting Zara fragrance that leaves a warm trail.
Top Notes:
Neroli, Orange
Mid Notes:
Rose, Orange Petals
Base Notes:
Vanilla, Tonka Bean
Seasons & Longevity
5. Chloe Love Story Eau de Parfum
Review
Fresh neroli, juicy pear, zesty citrus, and a touch of rose are accompanied by a sophisticated base of musk and wood. Love Story oozes pure romance, a classic Chloe fragrance.
Top Notes:
Neroli, Pear, Lemon, Grapefruit, Bergamot
Mid Notes:
Peach, Blackcurrant, Rose, Stephanotis, Orange Blossom
Base Notes:
Patchouli, Cedar, Musk, Cashmirwood
Seasons & Longevity
6. Le Labo Neroli 36 Eau de Parfum
Review
Crisp aldehydes, orange blossom, mandarin orange, and sensual musk make Neroli 36 from Le Labo a refined and timeless choice, a staple in any collection—elegance with a capital E.
Top Notes:
Aldehydes, Orange blossom, Mandarin Orange
Mid Notes:
Jasmine, Rose
Base Notes:
Tonka bean, Vanilla, Musk
Seasons & Longevity
7. Tom Ford Neroli Portofino Eau de Parfum
Review
I still prefer this 2011 Neroli Portofino EDP over the new 2024 parfum because it is beautiful. Bright citrus, lavender, and not forgetting blooming neroli. A luxurious summer escape, Tom Ford style.
Top Notes:
Mandarin Orange, Bergamot, Lemon, Lavender, Myrtle, Rosemary, Bitter Orange
Mid Notes:
Neroli, Jasmine, African Orange Flower, Pittosporum
Base Notes:
Amber, Ambrette, Angelica
Seasons & Longevity
Ingrid’s Top Pick
Montale Holy Neroli Eau de Parfum
My top pick is Montale Holy Neroli because the mix of fresh floral neroli with its bitter orange persona, musk and vanilla is feminine and elegant.
What Does Neroli Go Well With?
When paired with neroli, I find that these notes can create beautifully balanced and multi-dimensional perfumes, from fresh and uplifting to deep and sensual.
| Note | Why It Pairs Well With Neroli |
|---|---|
| Jasmine | Adds a rich, heady floral depth, enhancing the luxurious feel of neroli. |
| Bergamot | Provides a zesty, citrus lift that complements neroli’s own citrusy undertones. |
| Sandalwood | Offers a creamy, woody base that contrasts with neroli’s light floral notes, adding warmth and depth. |
| Musk | Contributes a soft, clean backdrop that supports neroli’s delicate and fresh nuances. |
| Lavender | Brings an herbal freshness that meshes well with the green aspects of neroli, adding an aromatic layer. |
| Rose | Elevates the fragrance with classic, romantic floral notes that harmonize with neroli’s sweetness. |
| Vanilla | Softens and sweetens the blend, providing a smooth, comforting base that enhances neroli’s brightness. |
| Mandarin | Enhances the citrus profile, adding a sweet, tangy depth that brightens the overall scent. |
| Vetiver | Introduces a grounding, earthy quality that balances the lightness of neroli with a deep, clean finish. |
| Ylang-Ylang | Adds exotic, floral notes that increase the complexity and richness of the neroli fragrance. |
Conclusion
From the sun-drenched Mediterranean shores to sophisticated urban landscapes, neroli is your floral companion for daytime freshness and evening sophistication.
If you need a scent with a holiday vibe, something to wear on a sunny day or to elevate your evening, there is a neroli perfume here for every season, mood and occasion.
Also Read: 10 Best Summer Perfumes for Women: The 2024 Edition
