9 Benjoin (2008)
by Prada

Given how the other major designer houses (Hermes, Chanel, etc.) and even Guerlain have been capitalizing on their in-house 'niche' lines, it is hard to understand why Prada doesn't do the same. They've put the effort into releasing ten unique compositions, nearly all of which are next-to-impossible to find. I've now tried nine of the ten, and while I don't personally enjoy all the fragrances they are all excellent compositions, worthy of sampling.

With such limited distribution there is little by way of reviews or commentary on these parfums, heightening the mystery. Perhaps you've opened this basenotes page looking for some info on No.9 Benjoin (Benzoin), which has no reviews at the time of this writing. As the at-this-time-sole-reviewer I am telling you to do whatever you can to get yourself a bottle of this perfume - stock up if you have to - because this is amazing, amazing stuff.

There's two things going on here. First is the smoky/resinous/sweet note of benzoin (along with a hint of vanilla). The second thing, which I suppose is what they refer to as 'Bitter orange tree'), is a potent vegetal/green/woody note that contrasts with the smooth benzoin. On application the vegetal note is overpowering - to the point of being uncomfortable. The discord between this note and the underlying benzoin creates a very tense composition, yet for whatever reason the perfume in its entirety is very compelling, and I find myself with my nose dug into my hand, not wanting to miss a minute. As the fragrance progresses these two discordant accords merge, the vegetal note mellowing and the benzoin/vanilla growing, until a very comfortable base establishes itself. The base resembles a very smoky, slightly musky and resinous vanilla, and the base persists for many hours.

I'm going to guess that No.9 Benjoin isn't going to appeal to everyone, despite my plea to purchase it. If you've purchased it on account of my review and don't like it, you can just drop me a line and I'll take it off your hands :-) Two huge thumbs up!

9th March, 2010.