It was a chilly, windy Tuesday in November. As I got ready for work, I walked over to my fragrance shelf to grab Ali Baba by Maiora, my current go-to scent. Right next to it, however, stood an old favorite: Lorenzo Pazzaglia Van Py Rhum. I had worn this fragrance countless times in the past, but ever since Ali Baba entered my collection, it had taken a backseat. It wasn’t that I preferred Ali Baba more, but its better value for money was undeniable—100ml for €189 compared to Van Py Rhum’s €145 for just 50ml. Yet, as I reached for Ali Baba, I paused. My eyes lingered on the Van Py Rhum bottle. The design, the name, the memories of compliments—it all came rushing back. Overwhelmed by nostalgia, I decided to rekindle my love for this old gem.
The moment I sprayed it on, I was reminded why I had fallen for it in the first place. The rich, indulgent scent enveloped me, instantly reigniting my passion for this fragrance. It was unfair how I had replaced it with the newer "toy," Ali Baba`, without giving it the appreciation it deserved.
Wearing it again after so long, I noticed the differences between the two fragrances. For someone seeking a single, vanilla/ rum fragrance with great value for money, Ali Baba` is the better option. But for true perfume aficionados who crave the best, Van Py Rhum is in a league of its own. It offers a deeper, richer experience—an unparalleled combination of vanilla and rum
that’s the finest I’ve ever encountered.
I sprayed this masterpiece in the morning, and by the afternoon, while at the gym, I was already receiving compliments from strangers. I realized how much I had missed its bold presence—a true all-day companion, radiating strength and character from morning to night.
Ratings Breakdown
Projection: 10+/10
Sillage: 10+/10
Longevity: 10+/10
Complexity: 9.5/10
Uniqueness: 9/10
Likability by Others: 9/10
Personal Preference: 10+/10
Price-Value Ratio: 8/10
Overall Rating: 9.4/10
Final Thoughts
Van Py Rhum is not just a fragrance—it’s an experience. While its price may deter some, its quality is worth every penny for those who appreciate true artistry in perfumery. For me, it’s a timeless treasure that reminds me why I fell in love with fragrances in the first place. Sometimes, the old toys really are the best.