Chanel No 5 Parfum

Brace yourself. The most modern N5 Parfum is here. I am comparing this 2026 parfum to my 15ml batch code 5101 (2020). There are indeed some nuanced differences more than just the batch or aging. 2026 Parfum has so much CLARITY (clear aldehyde, bergamot, and jasmine) and BRIGHTNESS. I would say it is more like the extrait version of N5 Eau Premiere or L’eau, because you will find no more prominent civet and oakmoss in this new version. It’s not animalic, it’s not so indolic, it doesn’t smell vintage despite the DNA. It centers around sparkling aldehydic powder with soapy bright lively florals and tanginess of bergamot and ylang-ylang. Whereas the 2020 Parfum is a big nod to vintage style perfumery with obvious oakmoss, indolic florals and deep warm powdery civet. It has the vibe of Arpege Extrait and the warm animalic powderiness of Bal A Versailles. To each of their own, but I am in love with the 2026 Parfum right now despite the differences. N5 Parfums have this luminous glow that you don’t experience on N5 EDT or EDP. You have to try it, reading a thousand reviews is not equivalent to experience the N5 parfum one time with your own nose.

So for anyone in the future confused as to why there are like three versions of the extract line for Chanel, I have the privilege of witnessing this relaunch and telling people what the deal is. So the extract line was discontinued for a while, then rumours appeared that Chanel was searching for a new bottle manufacturer, and fast forward, we got these, which didn't change much except for the new (ugly) packaging boxes. For some reason, Fragrantica decided to add them as separate perfumes.

Pffft... Just another cash grab, at least come up with a name. This won't be around long.

I read the notes, and all I see is Musk 74 Poudré. So don't waste your money on this one

The lines on the box don't even align...smh