Profumum Roma stands out in the realm of niche perfumery as a master of simplicity, yet its creations encapsulate exceptional richness and depth. Founded in 1996, this Italian perfume house has gained renown for its concentrated fragrances, often ranging from 43% to 46% perfume oils. This deliberate focus sets Profumum apart, turning simple scents into luxurious olfactory experiences. In this exploration, we will delve deeply into two of their standout offerings: *Dulcis in Fundo*, a celebration of vanilla, and *Arso*, which revolves around earthy, piney incense. Let’s uncover the notes, characteristics, and experiences that these fragrances evoke, making them worthy of consideration for anyone in search of indulgent perfumes.
Dulcis in Fundo: A Gourmand Delight
A Sensory Voyage
One cannot help but feel nostalgic when encountering *Dulcis in Fundo*. This fragrance transports wearers to the atmosphere of a bustling ice cream parlor, where the sweet aroma of freshly baked waffle cones and syrupy desserts envelops the senses. Launched in 2001, *Dulcis in Fundo* invites you to indulge in a world where pleasure meets seduction. The Profumum Roma website describes it succinctly, implying that this lush vanilla scent encapsulates the very essence of gluttony and romantic allure.Aromatic Composition
*dulcis in fundo* opens with a vibrantly tangy burst of Sicilian orange, reminiscent of the exhilarating moment when you peel a clementine. This bright and sweet initial impression is soon complemented by a deepening layer of vanilla, which is both creamy and delectable, reminiscent of rich dessert toppings. The lusciousness of this blend, articulated as “ambrosial,” draws parallels to the indulgence of whipped cream and the pleasure of shared treats. As the fragrance settles, the initial sweetness transforms into something more profound. The blood orange note mellows, allowing the warm, custardy core of vanilla to take center stage. Transformative in nature, the sweet citrus fades to give way to the scent of warm waffle cones and crème brûlée, lightly dusted with sugar. Interestingly, there are whispers of gingerbread lurking in the background, enriching this warm dessert concoction.A Cozy Experience
The wearability of *Dulcis in Fundo* is what makes it truly special. While intensely sweet, it avoids the pitfalls of becoming cloying or overwhelming. It's a comforting scent, akin to cuddling up in soft blankets or enjoying the company of loved ones over hearty desserts. The airiness of the fragrance allows it to linger gently on the skin rather than project forcefully, creating an intimate, skin-like scent that lovers of gourmand fragrances seek. The longevity of *Dulcis in Fundo* is commendable, lasting approximately eight hours, with traces whispering softly well beyond that point. For many, this combination of sweetness and subtlety offers a seductive allure, making it an ideal companion for cozy winter evenings or intimate gatherings.Pricing and Availability
The allure of such exceptional craftsmanship does come with a price tag. *Dulcis in Fundo* retails for $240 or €179. While this may seem steep to some, the high concentration of perfume oil justifies the investment for enthusiasts who appreciate meticulously crafted gourmand fragrances. It is predominantly available in 100ml bottles, and enthusiasts often resort to specialty stores or online perfumeries like Luckyscent and Osswald NYC to find this delight.Arso: The Essence of Wilderness
A Journey Through Nature
Where *Dulcis in Fundo* offers a sweet escape into culinary pleasure, *Arso* beckons with the primal and grounding scents of nature. Released in 2010, *Arso*, which translates to "burnt" in Italian, captures the essence of a remote forest cabin in winter. The concept is eloquently described on the Profumum Roma website as a cozy oasis, intertwined with the warmth of a crackling fireplace, leather armchairs, and aromatic wood smoke wafting in from outside.Notes that Evoke Memories
A sniff of *Arso* opens with resinous pine sap, enveloped by a smoky cedar overtone that harkens back to childhood memories of joyful bonfires. As the fragrance begins to evolve, hints of amber and sweet caramel bring depth, crafting a multi-layered experience that mirrors nature's complexity. There is a certain muskiness that underpins the scent, primarily due to the inclusion of ambergris, imparting a rich, salty quality. This interplay produces vivid imagery of a warm cabin surrounded by a snow-covered forest—where scents of burnt leaves, sweet caramel, and supple leather meld into one harmonious composition. The initial freshness provided by the pine transforms into a comforting warmth that echoes the feelings of safety one experiences while nestled indoors amid winter’s bite.The Transformative Nature of Arso
*Arso* unfolds in distinct phases. The opening hours are dominated by sharp, smoky notes paired with gentle sweetness, providing both warmth and invigorating freshness. Over several hours, the scent takes a more grounded turn, with dry wooden notes taking precedence. Here, it reveals a more leathery aspect that is softened by the lingering sweetness, ultimately creating an enthralling olfactory journey. This fragrance is best described as unisex, appealing not only to those with a rugged scent preference but also to anyone who appreciates a rich and evocative blend of earthy notes. Each wearer will experience it differently based on their body chemistry, making for a highly personal scent profile.Longevity and Pricing
Similar to *Dulcis in Fundo*, *Arso* commands a price of $240 or €179 for a 100ml bottle. Its concentrated perfume oil ensures that it not only lasts on the skin but also continues to reveal new layers throughout the day. Expected longevity falls between nine to ten hours, with fleeting whispers of fragrance lingering possibly longer—making it a cherished choice for those who revel in woody and smoky aromas. For those eager to procure a bottle, *Arso* can be found at retailers like Luckyscent and Osswald NYC, where samples may also be available for those hesitating to commit to a full-sized bottle.In Conclusion
Profumum Roma’s dedication to crafting concentrated fragrances allows them to create olfactory stories that are both simple and profound. With *Dulcis in Fundo*, the essence of indulgent vanilla envelops you in familiar sweetness, while *Arso* roots you in the wild, earthy elements of nature. Both fragrances embody elegance and quality, offering something distinct to fragrance connoisseurs. Whether you seek the coziness of dessert-like sweetness or the grounding warmth of a smokey forest, these two scents promise to fulfill your olfactory desires under the ethos of luxurious simplicity.What is Profumum Roma known for?
Profumum Roma is known for its niche perfumes that boast high concentrations of perfume oils (43%-46%). The brand focuses on creating luxurious and rich fragrances often based on a singular, dominant note.
What are the main notes in Dulcis in Fundo?
Dulcis in Fundo features prominent notes of Sicilian citrus fruits and vanilla. Additional nuances include elements reminiscent of dessert items like crème brûlée and waffle cones.
How does Arso differ from Dulcis in Fundo?
Arso features earthy notes such as pine resin, cedar, and leather, evoking the ambiance of a smoky forest cabin, whereas Dulcis in Fundo is centered around sweet, gourmand notes, presenting a dessert-like experience.
Are these perfumes unisex?
Yes, both Dulcis in Fundo and Arso are considered unisex, appealing to diverse preferences with their various evocative notes.