Mecca Balsam

This is one of those very rare perfect perfumes, at least according to me, but I like some of this Eastern-inspired stuff for the Western world. It's warm and cozy. Think Camel by Zoologist or Sadel by Svensk Parfym. A little balsam sweet, a little dusty, maybe smoky to some, highly exotic and emotive. Not super-complex. It doesn't change over time. But the one smell it has is magnificent. It tiptoes between all the different definitions and just does something original and deeply beautiful. I've owned three different sizes of this. The large bottle is nice, but I think the 15.5ml is my favorite. I absolutely love the plastic teardrop cap. None of the others that I've tried from this brand affect me like this one, but they have some nice stuff, for people seeking something more fringe artful.

This is a warm, balmy and spicy composition. Mecca Balsam is inspired by a trip to the Holy Mecca where it is 100 degrees almost daily, but this is a warm hug on a cold day; in front of an embery fire. The presence of incense is known upon application. This blend is rich and divine with just the right amount of tobacco. You’ll find that these notes are more perceptible in cooler weather. Mecca Balsam is a very full, dense fragrance that softens satisfyingly. My favorite part of this scent story, is the dry-down. This will likely be my Winter choice of 2022.

Two versions exist. I've tried both. I prefer the earlier non-smoke version. Aka the Jim Lewis favorite, referred to on profumo.it website where you buy this The "Jim Lewis" version of Mecca has smooth caramel resinous balsam notes. Never get sick of it. I detect Balsam of Peru, Benzoin and possibly Styrax ? Comparing to Tauer Incense Extreme a linear sharp pine resin. Comparing to Tabac Aurea a lighter, sweeter, tobacco and boozy Mecca, a favourite. 4.6 / 5

I've noticed that this brand is very straightforward with the names of their fragrances; this one was just what I expected. Beautiful elevated essential oil type smell, very balsalmic and mystical, natural, spiced, just a tiny bit medicinal. Lots and lots of resins. Oud usually goes sour on my skin, but the oud note was very subdued and hardly noticeable in the batch I got. 100% unisex.

This may be my favorite fragrance ever. Very rich, complex, dark tobacco and incense scent with light florals that dance in and out. I can't get enough of it. I love everything I have purchased from this house, including Tabac, Tawaf, and Irham. Excellent sillage and longevity. Highly recommended.