Reviews of Maharanih (2006)
by Parfums de Nicolaï

Maharanih is an aromatic scent that disturbs as much as it intrigues. There’s a green-floral earthiness about the composition that is complimented by a sharp orange zest accord. On first impressions, it most certainly is an intoxicating brew but, unfortunately, it never goes beyond that level of fascination for me.

Admittedly, Maharanih is very well composed and there is no question that high quality ingredients were used to create this. However, after several wearings, its weirdness becomes more evident leaving you even more confused (rather than certain) about whether you like it or not.

The use of amber provides a sensual, and slightly sweet, foundation for the rest of the notes and succeeds in smoothening some of the sharp edges. Unfortunately, this isn’t sufficient for the orange zest accord that never fails to fade into the background or dissipate completely. With each consecutive wearing, the orange zest becomes more noticeable, so much that I’m left with a sharp and overwhelming accord that, to put simply, harasses my nose for several hours. Even throughout the drydown, I can still detect it amongst the traces of sandalwood and patchouli.

As much as Maharanih is unique, it is also too nauseating for me to completely tolerate or pull off.

[Original submission date: 05 January 2009]

I have very mixed feelings about Maharanih. It's a lean Shalimar with an extra big shot of orange. There is a brightness about this that reminds me of the old Shalimar, but the heavy orange peel really "puts me off". If you are a man who likes Shalimar but wants something a little more masculine, Maharanih might be for you. If you are a woman, just buy Shalimar!