Creed Fragrance review

Creed Angelique Encens 2019 Review: Vintage Powdered Elegance

Creed's 2019 re-release of Angelique Encens: a powdery violet and incense masterpiece.

By Vivir ·
In the annals of niche perfumery, the House of Creed occupies a unique position, blending centuries-old craftsmanship with a modern sensibility. Among its vast oeuvre, certain fragrances remain obscure, overshadowed by bestsellers like Aventus or Green Irish Tweed. Angelique Encens is one such hidden gem. Originally launched in the 1980s and discontinued, it was re-released in 2019 to the delight of vintage fragrance enthusiasts. This 2019 iteration, composed under the guidance of Olivier Creed, seeks to recapture the essence of the original while adapting to contemporary tastes. Angelique Encens is a fragrance that defies easy categorization. It is at once powdery and smoky, floral and woody, spicy and balsamic. Its heart is a violet-rose duet, rendered in a powdery veil, while its base smolders with incense and vetiver. This review delves into the composition, performance, and overall character of the 2019 re-release, providing a comprehensive analysis for the discerning fragrance lover.
$300-$450
SpringSummerFallWinter

Accords

Powdery Violet Woody Warm Spicy Rose Amber Smoky Floral Balsamic Aromatic

Notes Pyramid

Top
VioletBulgarian RoseCoriander
Heart
SandalwoodCinnamonWhite PepperPatchouli
Base
IncenseMuskVetiver

Scent Journey

1
Opening 0-30 min

The opening is a burst of violet and Bulgarian rose, bright and slightly powdery, with a hint of coriander adding a spicy-green facet. Projection is moderate initially, creating a noticeable aura.

2
Heart 1-2 hrs

As the heart emerges, sandalwood and cinnamon add warmth and depth, while white pepper and patchouli contribute a subtle spiciness and earthy undertone. The powdery character remains prominent, now wrapped in a woody-spicy embrace.

3
Drydown 4+ hrs

The base reveals incense, musk, and vetiver, creating a smoky, balsamic finish that lingers close to the skin. The overall effect is sophisticated and vintage-inspired, with moderate longevity of 6-8 hours.

Performance Dashboard

Longevity

6-8 hours (approximate)

Projection

moderate, close-to-skin after the opening

Sillage

moderate

When to Wear

SpringOK
SummerAvoid
FallBest
WinterBest
date nighteveningformaloffice (light application)

Pros & Cons

  • Unique powdery-violet and incense combination
  • Elegant, vintage-inspired character
  • Good longevity for an EDP (6-8 hours)
  • Moderate sillage makes it suitable for office wear with light application
  • Limited availability and high price point
  • May be too powdery or old-fashioned for modern tastes
  • Projection becomes close-to-skin after the opening
  • Lack of widespread recognition compared to mainstream Creed releases

Price & Value

$300-$450
Expensive, but consistent with Creed's niche pricing for a 75ml flacon.

“Worth the investment for collectors and fans of vintage-style powdery florals; otherwise, sample first.”

Reformulation History

No significant batch variations reported for the 2019 re-release. As with all Creed fragrances, subtle differences may occur due to natural ingredient variations, but none are widely documented.

Who It's For

Ideal For

  • women who appreciate powdery, violet-forward fragrances
  • collectors of vintage-style or obscure Creed releases
  • those who enjoy incense-laced, balsamic compositions

Not Recommended For

  • those who prefer fresh, citrusy, or aquatic scents
  • individuals sensitive to powdery or smoky notes
  • men seeking traditionally masculine fragrances

Explore More

Similar Fragrances

Après l'Ondée Guerlain
Vega Vega Guerlain
Liu Liu Guerlain
Angélique Encens (original release) Creed

Layering Ideas

Final Verdict

Creed Angelique Encens 2019 is a beautifully crafted, vintage-inspired fragrance that showcases the house's ability to blend precious ingredients into a harmonious whole. Its powdery violet and incense character is both elegant and distinctive, though it may not appeal to those seeking modern freshness. For collectors and lovers of classic perfumery, it is a worthy addition; for others, a sample is essential.

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