Kingside is a warm, Gourmand, balsamic scent created for Men and Women in 2025 by perfumer David Apel.
Review
At first this smells kind of like Caramel Corn, but then you can start to smell that familiar Pistachio essence. The Pistachio doesn’t take over the scent like it does in some fragrances, but kind of stays under the surface. Amber Rum adds a warmth that is kind of boozy, but you don’t feel the boozy essence right away. It slowly seeps in as everything dries together. Almond Milk adds a smooth creaminess, and Peru Balsam brings a depth that keeps the warmth going. This is a Gourmand scent that isn’t too sweet. It feels very Wintery….like a warm, boozy beverage you might sip on at a holiday market. Because of this warmth, it is a perfect scent for Fall and Winter, and can work in the Springtime. It’s safe enough for the office and can be worn just about any time, place, or occasion. It has been compared to Casamorati’s Italica and Kayali’s Yum Pistachio Gelato.
Inspiration
In Chess, the King represents leadership, authority, and the ultimate objective of the game. Kingside represents our confidence and inner strength, and the irresistible charm we all wish to project.
Notes
The blend of Pistachio, Cardamom, Grapefruit Zest, and Hazelnut Flower create an essence like Caramel Corn in the very beginning of this scent. Once all of these notes have blended together, you can pick out the familiar nutty essence of the Pistachio. The Grapefruit doesn’t stand out on its own, but helps to create a brightness within the warm. Amber Rum brings a gentle boozy essence to the scent, which is toned down by the creaminess of the Pistachio blended into Tonka Bean and an Almond Milk note. Peru Balsam adds its resinous essence to the end of this scent, helping the warmth to last, and bringing some added depth.
Top Notes: Creamy Pistachio, Cardamom, Grapefruit Zest
Heart Notes: Hazelnut Flower, Amber Rum, Peony Petals
Base Notes: Tonka Bean, Almond Milk, Peru Balsam
