Elizabeth Arden Untold Absolu Eau de Parfum Review
A luxurious journey of vanilla, fruit, and amber in a warm, sensual composition.
By Vivir·
In this review
Elizabeth Arden's Untold Absolu Eau de Parfum is a captivating addition to the iconic Untold line, released in 2014. Crafted by the talented perfumer Clement Gavarry, this fragrance is a warm, sensual composition that invites you into a world of luxurious indulgence. With its rich blend of fruity and floral notes, anchored by a base of Tahitian vanilla and cashmere wood, Untold Absolu is a scent that tells a story of elegance and passion.
From the first spritz, you are enveloped in a luscious cloud of plum and raspberry, brightened by a hint of ginger and bergamot. As the heart unfolds, the intoxicating aroma of Egyptian jasmine and narcissus emerges, adding a floral sophistication. The drydown is a warm, comforting embrace of vanilla, tonka bean, and benzoin, with a whisper of cashmere wood. This is a fragrance that lingers on the skin, leaving a trail of sweet, ambered warmth.
Untold Absolu is more than just a perfume; it's an experience. It's the perfect companion for a romantic evening or a cozy night in, yet versatile enough for everyday wear. Its moderate sillage and longevity make it a delightful choice for those who appreciate a scent that is both intimate and memorable. In this review, we will delve into every facet of this exquisite fragrance, from its notes and performance to its value and comparisons.
The first 0-30 minutes: A burst of juicy plum and tart raspberry opens the fragrance, given a sparkling lift by bergamot and a subtle kick of ginger. The initial impression is fruity and vibrant, with a sweet, liqueur-like quality that hints at the warmth to come.
2
Heart1-2 hrs
1-2 hours (heart): As the top notes fade, the heart reveals a lush bouquet of Egyptian jasmine and narcissus, their white floralcy adding a creamy, intoxicating richness. The sweetness is tempered by the balsamic undertones, creating a harmonious blend that is both elegant and sensual.
3
Drydown4+ hrs
4+ hours: The base notes emerge, wrapping the wearer in a warm, comforting embrace. Tahitian vanilla is the star, its creamy, exotic sweetness complemented by tonka bean and benzoin. Cashmere wood adds a soft, woody foundation, ensuring the fragrance lingers close to the skin for hours.
Performance Dashboard
Longevity4.0/5
6-8 hours
Projection3.0/5
moderate, close-to-skin after the first hour
Sillage3.0/5
moderate
When to Wear
SpringOK
SummerAvoid
FallBest
WinterBest
date nightevening outofficeeveryday wear
Pros & Cons
+Warm, cozy, and inviting
+Good longevity (6-8 hours)
+Affordable price point
+Versatile for various occasions
+Pleasant vanilla and fruity notes
−May be too sweet for some
−Moderate sillage and projection
−Not ideal for hot summer days
−Packaging may feel basic
Price & Value
$20-$65
Excellent value for a designer fragrance; often available at discounters.
“A high-quality scent at an accessible price point.”
Reformulation History
No significant batch variations reported.
Who It's For
Ideal For
women who love warm, sweet, vanilla-based fragrances
fans of fruity-floral gourmands
those seeking a cozy, sensual scent for fall and winter
individuals looking for an affordable yet luxurious perfume
Layer with a vanilla body lotion to enhance the gourmand facets.
Pair with a woody perfume to add depth and longevity.
Combine with a floral scent to accentuate the jasmine and narcissus.
Final Verdict
Elizabeth Arden Untold Absolu is a beautifully crafted fragrance that offers a luxurious experience at an accessible price. Its warm, sweet, and fruity profile makes it a perfect choice for fall and winter, and its moderate performance ensures it's suitable for both day and evening wear. While it may not appeal to those who prefer fresh scents, it is a delightful addition to any gourmand lover's collection.