Eau de Mandarine Ambrée

Eau de Mandarine Ambrée by Hermès, created by Jean-Claude Ellena in 2013, is a simple, sunny citrus for anyone. People describe it as gourmand, amber and citrus in equal measure, which sums up its arc: a juicy fruit opening that softens into a warm, lightly sweet glow.

It begins with mandarin orange, sweet and zesty rather than sharp, and that note stays recognisable almost throughout. Passionfruit in the heart adds a tart, tropical juiciness that keeps the citrus from flattening out. The base is amber alone, a soft, warm sweetness that gives the fruit a little weight and a slightly honeyed finish without turning it heavy.

About half of wearers report moderate longevity and a quarter find it weak, so it is a scent to reapply rather than one that lasts all day. Sillage is intimate for about half and moderate for most others. It is voted mostly for summer and then spring, and almost entirely for daytime, which suits hot weather, holidays and anyone who wants a cheerful citrus that stays close.

Eau de Mandarine Ambrée — unisex fragrance by Hermès (released 2013). Top notes: Mandarin Orange. Heart notes: Passionfruit. Base notes: Amber. — Parfica open fragrance database