Magnolia Nobile is the latest from Acqua di Parma, and it joins 2004's Iris Nobile in what I suppose will now be the Nobile collection or somesuch. The inspiration reportedly comes from "the gardens of majestic villas along Lake Como, graced with magnolia trees", and that romantic, upscale vision is a pretty good prelude to the perfume itself.

Magnolia Nobile starts off with fresh green citrus, in the same mode as the fresh green citrus that's in everything lately: Versace Versense, Bvlgari Omnia Green Jade, Chanel Cristalle Eau Verte. It's crisp and diffusive but lacks real sparkle, and I wonder if this is simply the new style, or if it's the result of the recent IFRA restrictions on natural citrus oils? Whatever it is, it does not make my heart sing: it's too fresh, and all of these perfumes remind me, to one degree or another, of functional products — nicely done functional products, to be sure, but still...

Acqua di Parma will launch Magnolia Nobile, a new floral fragrance for women, in July. Along with Iris Nobile, which launched in 2004, the new scent will be marketed as part of the Acqua di Parma Nobili Collection for women.

Magnolia Nobile was developed by perfumer Antoine Maisondieu...

The Magnolia flower, with its pristine white petals, symbolizes the moment of renewal and perfection in nature: springtime...

Magnolia Dolce is the latest release from i Profumi di Firenze, and features magnolia petals "bathed in Damascus Rose water for 10 days to capture their delectable creaminess".

The top notes are sweet and slightly sharp, with possibly some lily of the valley or another, similar floral. It calms to a creamy magnolia with a touch of rose. The dry down is very soft, with just the tiniest hint of powder. I am still guessing here, but I get an impression of iris, and maybe some sandalwood in the base...