Incense In The Wind

Burner Burner - Carhartt jacket incense burner

Thursday, 7 March 2013

Top of the Dhoops! Best Rated Incense

Top Drawer

  
Malaan Gaudhoop Swarna Champa (D)
Dec 2024 - Score: 50


Balaji Dharma Abhyasa Yoga (M)
Nov 2024 - Score: 50


SamsaSpoon
Homemade Swiss Stone Pine (D)
Oct 2023 - Score: 50↑ 


Koya's
Rasta Natural Incense Sticks (M)
Dec 2023 - Score: 50=

 
Jan 2023 - Score: 50

 
Dec 2024 - Score: 48


Balaji Prashanth
Herbal Flexo Sticks (M)
April 2024  - Score: 48↑

 
B.G Pooja Store Nag Champa (M)
Aug 2023 - Score: 48
  

Balaji Dharma
Dhyaana Yoga (PM)
Nov 2024 - Score: 46


Balaji Red
Premium Flora Sticks (M)
Oct 2023 - Score: 46↑


April 2024 - Score: 46↑=↑

 
Happy Hari Kings of Incense
Queen of Roses (M)
Feb 2022 - Score: 46

   
Nandita Original Amber (PM)
July 2024 - Score: 46↑


Shroff Mogra (M)
Dec 2022 - Score: 45

 
Parimal
Yatra Natural Incense Cones (D) 
Oct 2024 - Score: 45↑↑↓


Nandita Wood Spice (M)
Oct 2023 - Score: 44↑=↓↓↑


BIC Panchavati Dhoop Sticks (D)
Jan 2023 - Score: 45↑=↑


Scent appreciation is personal

I think scent is personal - there are complex, subtle, and emotional reasons why we like one scent and not another.  We can be objective and scientific and say that a fragrance contains so many terpenoids and benzenoids and volatile linalyl oxides, but that information doesn't tell us how we respond to it. Each of us brings our own history and experience to an engagement with a scent. Personal memories, such as Proust's memory of the taste/scent of  tea and cake have a significant influence and power over how we respond to scent. 

While the way an incense is made will have an influence on the appreciation (or rejection) of a scent, it is generally the scent itself we are responding to. I prefer my incense to be natural. I prefer that I have some information about who makes the incense (and that may be one of the reasons I have Samsa's Swiss Stone Pine as my current favourite incense). I prefer that, as with Goloka, proceeds from the profits go to help women and children in need. These things give me a sense of well being, which puts me in a good place to enjoy the scent. Other small factors come into play - such as the appearance of the stick, and the appearance of the packaging, and the cost of the incense. Some people feel good paying a lot - it gives them a sense that the product is of value. Other people feel good paying a fair price - not too high, nor too low. All these things prepare the ground. But it is the scent itself we ultimately respond to. I am more likely to enjoy (and so score highly) a musky, sweet, woody scent than I am a dry, chalky, floral scent. I am more likely to enjoy a fragrance that is complex and unfolds in different but coordinated directions, than a simple single scent. Indeed, it is complexity that appears to be the key to my highest rated incenses. 

But it's each to their own. We all respond in different ways. Vive la différence - it would be boring if we were all the same! 


Purgatory

Sometimes I get enthusiastic and will put an incense in my top drawer World Class listing on just one or two burns, and there it stays. I am now using a Purgatory section where incenses that impress me are placed pending a re-burn after at least one month has passed. Also in here will be placed incenses that have been in the World Class listing for a year or more without a re-burn. After a re-burn, the incense will either be moved (back) into World Class or moved down into Heavenly (or lower, as appropriate). 

New reviews (in?)
   

Damodaras Bhagwandas Sugandhi
Agarwood (M)
Feb 2024 (in) - Score: 48


Nov 2024 (in) - Score: 47

  
Balaji Signature (PM)
Nov 2024 (in) - Score: 47


Temple of Incense Oudh (M)
Feb 2024 (in) - Score 47


Dec 2023 (in) - Score: 47 
 
  
Dec 2024 (in) - Score: 46


Milo's Temple Maha Milo (M)
Feb 2024 - Score: 45



Old reviews (out?)

Koya's Nirvana
Premium Incense Sticks (M)
Nov 2021 - Score: 48
  

Happy Hari
Oudh Masala (M)
Aug 2017 - Score: 48


March 2016 - Score: 48*



HMS Pure Incense Connoisseur
Nepal Musk (M)
July 2017 - Score: 46


Gokula Gaura Radharani (M)
Aug 2019 - Score: 46


Goloka
Chandan (M)
April 2013 - Score: 46*


Al Haramain Bukhoor
Al Watani (M)
March 2017 - Score: 45


Gokula Gopala Parvati (M)
May 2013 - Score: 45
 

(M) = Masala
(P) = Perfumed  - originally all perfumed sticks, but this is now intended to be perfumed charcoal only 
(PW) = Perfumed wood powder
(PM) = Perfumed masala (the scent is fragrance oils in a masala format) 
 (D) = Dry dhoop
(WD) = Wet dhoop
 (R) = Resin
(L) = Loose
↑ = Moved up after re-review
↓ = Moved down after re-review
= = Stayed in place after re-review 
* = Score over five years old, so may not be reliable
Discontinued = Vintage Incense - Not available under that brand name for over a year
Struck through - Vintage incense not reviewed for over five years 

Something a Little Bit Special (40+)
Heavenly Incense

Goloka Nature's Lavender (M- Feb 2017): 45↓↑* 
Goloka Chandan Dhoop Cones (D - July 2016): 45↓*  
Gokula Goloka Supreme (M - Feb 2024): 45↑  
Nandita Dehn Al Oudh: (PM - Dec 2024): 44↑   
Fumino Simply Sandalwood Cones (PM - Nov 2024): 45
Fumino Indian Spices (PM - April 2024): 45 
Balaji Blue Premium Flora Sticks (M - Feb 2024): 44 
Hari Darshan Sandalwood (M - Feb 2024): 44  
Meena Perfumery Meena Supreme (M - Oct 2023): 44
Happy Hari Meena Supreme (M - Oct 2020): 44  
Rasbihari Lal Absolute Amber (PM - Mar 2024): 43
GP Industries Pandhari (M - Aug 2023): 43  
Amritha Gia (P - Sept 2024): 43 
Gokula Shyam (M - Feb 2024): 43
Shroff Suganda Bathi (PM - March 2022): 43 
Ramakrishna's Kasturi Drop (PM - Jan 2023): 43  
Balaji Dharma Jnana Yoga (M - July 2024): 42
Gokula Prabhupada Special (M - July 2017): 42 
Sai Handicrafts UK Gold Sandal (sticks) (M - Nov 2023): 42↑
Satya (BNG - post 2018) Myrrh (M - Sept 2021): 42↑ 
SamsaSpoon Homemade Indian Frankincense & Cardamom (D - April 2023): 42 
Anand Mayur Flora Fluxo Bathi (M - Nov 2023): 42↓↓ 
New Age Black Copal (M - June 2024): 42  
Bhagvati Ppure Nagchampa (M - Dec 2018): 41  
New Age Code 1995 Thousand Aromas (M - May 2024): 41 
New Age Imports Artisan Five Elements Incense (M - Mar 2022): 41 
Shroff Holy Incense (M - June 2024): 41
Blue Pearl Classic Champa (M - Dec 2022): 41↓ 
Satya (BNG) Reiki (Jan 2024) Score: 41↓↓↑ 
Balaji Bakhoor Premium Incense Sticks (PM - Oct 2023): 41↑↓
Balaji Escentials Jasmine (PM - Nov 2024): 41
(Wonder Incense) New Moon Aromas Black Rose (PM - Oct 2024): 41↑ 
Sree Vani Little Ganesh (M - Oct 2024): 40↑  
Elbenzauber Nag Champa (M - Feb 2024): 40 
Satya Nag Champa (M - Dec 2022): 40↓ 
Satya (BNG - 2016) Patchouli (M - Dec 2019): 40 
Satya Nag Champa Fresh Rose Dhoop Cones (D - Dec 2020): 40↑↑ 
Satya (Mumbai) Blessings (M - Nov 2019): 40=
Satya Natural (M - March 2017): 40
Satya (BNG - post 2018) White Sage (M - Jan 2020): 40 
Happy Hari / Kings of Incense Queen of Lotus (M - Feb 2022): 40↓
Padma Store Happy Hari Queen of Lotus (M - Sept 2023): 40
Gokula Gopala Darshan Flora (M - May 2013): 40  
Balaji Escentials Cinnamon (M - March 2024): 40 
Goloka Patchouli Dhoop Cones (D - Aug 2020): 40
Goloka Nature's Basil (M - April 2023): 40==
Hari Om Ganesh Arti Dhoop Bathi (M - Oct 2021): 40 
Ranga Rao Manmohak Oudh (M - Sept 2023): 40↑
Bhagvati Ppure Nagchampa Black Opium (M - May 2017): 40
HEM Church Incense (M - Oct 2024): 40
Padmini Perfumed Dhoop Sticks (D - Feb 2022): 40↑ 
Padmini Clove Incense (Oct 2023): 40↓↑
GR International Jasmine (cones) (P - April 2018): 40↓* 

Decent Stuff (39-30)
Enjoyable, decent quality scents; happy to burn in the house at any time. 

Anand Unique Nag Champa (PM - Sept 2024): 39 
Anand Saffron Sandal (M - Oct 2024): 39
Indian Incense Orkay Namaste India Myrrh Natural Masala Incense (M): 39
Nandita Laxmidevi (M): 39↓
Gokula Gauranga (M - Aug 2019): 39  
Inca Aromas Pitanga (M - Oct 2024): 39 
Inca Aromas Priprioca (M - May 2024): 39
Goloka Nature's Rose (April 2023): 39↑↓  
Rathnams Tanjore Flexo Sticks (M - Sept 2021): 39  
Vivasvan Garden Fresh Pure Patchouli (M - Nov 2024): 39↑ 
Pradhan Royal Life (M - May 2024): 39
Ranga Rao Dasara (M): 39  
Ranga Rao Cycle Pushkarini (M): 39 
Om Brand Vedamrut Oudh Premium Incense Sticks (M - Oct 2023): 39
The Mother's India Fragrances Rishi (M): 39  
Shroff Pearl (M - Jan 2020): 39 
Shroff Orange Blossom (M - Jan 2020): 39  
Vijayshree Golden Hit (M): 39 
HEM Myrrh Masala  (M - March 2022): 39
HEM Cinnamon Masala Incense (M - March 2022): 39 
Sri Durga Perfumery Works (Ullas) Spiritual 7 Chakras (M - July 2018): 39 
Stamford Magic Angel (P - June 2019): 39
BIC Shivam Dhoop Sticks (D): 39 
GR International Sandalo (P - Jan 2024): 38↓↓↑↑↓
Balarama Zam Zam The Lick (P - Nov 2024): 38 
Anand Gold (PM - Sept 2024): 38 
A.S. Agarbathi Works Ayurvedic Agarwood (PM - Oct 2018): 37↑↓ [Average 37] 
(Wonder Incense) New Moon Aromas Shree Frankincense (PM - Nov 2024): 37
Satya (Mumbai) Patchouli Forest (M): 37↑↓ 
Sai Handicrafts UK Hand Rolled Agarwood (Jan 2024): 37 
Radha Madhav Damodar (M - Aug 2017): 37  
Goloka Nature's Supreme (Jan 2024): 37 
Shroff Mysore Musk (PM - June 2024): 37
Auromere Sandalwood Purity (M): 37  
Berk Palo Santo Holy Stick (M - Nov 2024): 37
Nandita Organic Cinnamon Premium Masala (PM - April 2024): 37 
Anand Blue Moon Flora (M - Oct 2024): 37
(HMS) Windrose Triloka Original Herbal Incense Hawaiian High (M - Jan 2020): 36 
Rasbihari Lal Super Musk Hina (M - March 2024): 36  
Om Sai's Trishala Heena Agarbatti (PM - Feb 2024): 36 
Green Tree Palo Santo Incense Cones (PM - April 2021): 36 
Tulasi Moon Exotic Incense Sticks (P): 36
Moksh Swarna Champa (P - Feb 2019): 36*  
Moksh Swarna Divya Sugandh (Divine Fragrance) (P - Nov 2024): 36↓↑ [Average 36] 
Balarama Zam Zam Bakhoor (P - Oct 2024): 36 
HEM Frankincense-Myrrh (P- Oct 2023): 36↑↓
HEM Cinnamon (P - Mar 2020): 36 
HEM Good Fortune (P - Jan 2019*): 36
Amritha Original (P - Aug 2024): 36  
Satya/Stamford (2014) Knowledge (M - Nov 2024): 35↑ 
Bhagwan Incense Himalayan Musk Masala Incense (M): 35  
Gokula Everest (M - Nov 2021): 35↓ 
Tulasi Nag Champa & Arruda Incense Sticks: 35 
Misbah's Arabian Oudh Premium Sticks (PM): 35
Shanthimalai Nag Champa (PM - Dec 2022): 35
Shroff Sandal Flora (PM - July 2024): 35
Shroff Mysore Sandal (PM - June 2024): 35
Shroff Super Star (M - Jan 2022): 35 
Shroff Green Durbar (M - Nov 2022): 35 
Shroff Red Sandal (PM - July 2024): 35
New Age Storax Balm (M - June 2024): 35
HEM Champa Black Natural Masala Incense (M - Oct 2024): 35
HEM Iris (P - June 2014): 35
HEM Amber Incense Sticks (P - Jan 2024): 35 
HEM Anubhuti (M - Apr 2020): 35 
Balarama Zam Zam Black Love (P - Nov 2024): 35↑↓[Average 35]   
Balarama Zam Zam African Cush (P - Jan 2018): 35 
Balarama Zam Zam Millionaire (P - Nov 2024): 35
Regent House Angel Wings (P): 35
Goloka Nagchampa (May 2015): 35↓*
Goloka Nature's Parijatha (Feb 2017): 35*
Goloka Reiki Cho Ku Rei / Healing (July 2018): 35*
Goloka Church Mix Resin Incense (Oct 2023): 35 
Goloka Sri Tulsi (Aug 2018): 35* 
Nandita Wood Spice Incense Cones (M): 35  
Gonesh Extra Rich Cedarwood (P - Nov 2024): 35 
Rango Rao Cycle Brand Vasu Kewda incense Sticks (P): 35 
One Aromatics Vanilla (P -May 2018 ): 35↑
Bimal (BAW) Shree Vitthal Flora Sticks (M): 34
Satya Super Hit (D - Oct 2023): 34↑↓↑↑↓ 
Satya (BNG) Spiritual Healing (PM - Dec 2024): 34
Happy Hari's Nag Champa Tru Blu (M - Dec 2022): 34  
(HMS) Primo Blue Lotus (M - Feb 2024): 34 
Berk Holy Smokes Ambrosia (HMS Blue Lotus) (M - Nov 2024): 34 
Gokula Ananda Flora Fluxo (M - Feb 2024): 34  
Gamta It Smells Like Authentic Agarwood (PM - May 2024): 34  
Green Tree Californian White Sage (M - Aug 2017): 34 
Balarama Zam Zam Ladies Night (P - Oct 2024): 34 
Balarama Wicked Dragon Vanilla (P - Dec 2024): 34 
Aromatika Ace Scents Dragon Blood (PW - Dec 2024): 34↓↓ [Average: 34]
Soul Sticks Aztec Aromas Copal (D - Dec 2024): 34
Sree Vani Little Buddha (PM - Nov 2024): 34 
Sree Vani Little Gopala (PM - Nov 2024): 34 
Sree Vani Little Shiva (PM - Dec 2024): 34
MDPH Fleur De Vie White Lotus Premium Incense Sticks (M - June 2023): 33  
Bhagwan Incense Vanilla Joy (PM - May 2024): 33
BIC Panchavati Gajra (PM): 33 
Shroff White Sandal (PM - July 2024): 33↑ 
Shroff Amber Rose (PM - July 2024): 33 
(Lovely Incense) Buddha Heart & Soul (M - Dec 2024): 33
Koya's Intimate Premium incense Sticks (P): 33=   
HEM The Sun (P - June 2024): 33 
HEM Soham Mogra (D - Aug 2019): 33
HEM Precious Chandan Cones (P - Jan 2019): 33*
HEM Frankincense Incense Cones (P - Dec 2020): 33 
Fair Trade Om Nagchampa (PM - April 2022): 33 
Bloome Incense Garden Strawberries (P - April 2016): 33*
GR International Fengshui Earth (P - Jan 2014): 33*
Moksh Akash Phool (P - July 2013): 33*
Moksh Swarna RajaniGandha (Tuberose) (P - Dec 2018): 33*
Nitiraj Red Nag Champa (M - Aug 2013): 33*
Mahendra Bhajan (P - July 2014): 33 
Balaji Om Shree Sai (M - Dec 2024): 32↓↑↓ [Average 33] 
One Aromatics Ambrosia (P -May 2018): 33↑
Sai Handicrafts UK Masala (Jan 2024): 33 
Ramakrishna's Nag Champa (M - Dec 2022): 32 
Aromatika Ace Scents Patchouli (M - May 2015): 32 
Aromatika Vedic Sacre Coeur Sandalwood  (M - April 2019): 42* (32) 
Aromatika Vedic Marie Qui Defait Les Noeuds (M - Nov 2022): 35↑* [Average: 32]
Ekom Kasturi (P): 32  
Gokula Incense Agarwood & Musk (M - Feb 2024): 32↓↑ 
Nandita Royal Attar Classic & Elegant Masala (PM - Dec 2024): 33↑ [Average: 32]
Nandita Fruit Blast Premium Masala Incense (PM - Feb 2024): 32 
SAC Sal Grosso C/Alho (Course Salt and Garlic) (Dec 2024): 32 
SAC Champa (P - March 2017): 32  
Deepika Black Opium Masala Cones (P - July 2022): 32Om Brand Vedamrut Nargis Premium Incense Sticks (PM): 32  
Balarama Zam Zam Angel Style (P - Nov 2024): 32 
HEM Patchouli (P - May 2024): 32↑↓ 
Radha Madhav Sandal Supreme (M - Feb 2024): 31  
Soul Sticks Aztec Aromas White Sage (D - Dec 2024): 31
Aromatika Ace Scents Palo Santo (P - Dec 2024): 31↑
Ullas Patil's Traditions of India Premium Flora Bathi (PM - Oct 2024): 31
Siro Yellow Sandalwood (P - Feb 2024): 31  
Darshan Kanishka (Vanilla) (P - May 2015): Score 31↑* 
Goloka Nature's Nest (M Nov 2024): 30↑↓ [Average: 31]
Balaji Chandan (PM): 31↑  
Gamta It Smells Like Saffron Sandal (PM - May 2024): 31
Fumino Autumn Breeze (PM - April 2024): 31 
Fumino Black Opium Cones (PM - Oct 2024): 31 
Betco Bouquet (P - March 2015): 31*
Joie Sea Breeze (P - April 2015): 31* 
Nandi's Madhu Mallika (PM - April 2014): 31*
Hari Om Divine Incense Gulab (July 2018): 31↑* 
Koya's Eva For Ever! Rose Premium Incense (P - Dec 2024): 30↑=↓[Average 31]  
HEM Lilac (P - May 2024): 31 
HEM Precious Mogra (P - July 2014*): 31 
HEM Myrrh Incense Cones (P - Jan 2019*): 31 
Vinasons (VNS) Kesar Gulab (PM): 31 
Milo's Temple Agar Wood (M - Feb 2024): 30 
Flourish Fragrance Bilvapatra (PM - May 2024): 30 
Shroff 505 Amber 1882 (PM - June 2024): 30  
Shroff Pavitram (PM - June 2024): 30
SAC Rose: 30  
Satya (BNG - Earth) White Sage Dhoop Cones (D): 30Ekom Woody: 30 
HEM Silver Rain (P - July 2024): 30 
HEM The Star (P - June 2024): 30
Hari Om Sambrini (P): 30*↓  
Balarama Spiritual Sky Frankincense & Myrrh (P - Nov 2024): 25↓ [Average 30]  
Balarama Zam Zam Jamaican Breeze (P - Jan 2018): 30*  
Balarama Zam Zam Sandalwood (P - Nov 2024): 30  
Balarama Moroccan Bazaar Cherry (P - Jan 2018): 30*
Koya's Eva Sandal Premium Incense (P - July 2022): 30 
Tulasi Sage (P - June 2018): 30↑ 
Metro Three in one (P): 30
One Aromatics Cedarwood (P - June 2018): 30↑
Betco Rose (P): 30
Pan Aroma Sandalwood (P): 30 
Aromatika Ace Scents Musk (PM - Dec 2024): 27↑↓  [Average: 30]  
Aromatika Ace Scents Sandalwood Myyrh (PW - Dec 2024): 26↓ [Average: 30]
Patanjali Aastha Agarbatti Tathastu (P): 30↑  
Hari Darshan Tribal Soul Myrrh (M - Oct 2024): 30=↑  

Modest Everyday or Average Incense (29-20)

Possibly a fragrance that doesn't impress enough to buy again, but not unpleasant
Useful in the outhouse or as a casual everyday in the house


Goloka Saffron Masala Incense (Jan 2024): 29  
HEM Soham Dhoop Batti (M - May 2019*): 29 
HEM Dragon's Blood (P - Dec 2024): 29↑
HEM Fruit Punch (P - Jan 2024): 29  
HEM Lime Lemon (P - May 2024): 29 
MDPH Fleur De Vie Holy Temple (PM - Oct 2024): 29
MDPH Zed Black Premium Sandal Agarbatti (M - Oct 2023): 29 
Koya's Shanthi Nivas Premium Incense (PM - Feb 2024): 29↑ 
Baieido Kobunboku Regular - Plum Blossom (D - Feb 2023): 29↓↓  
Fumino Cinnamon Apple Clove (PM - April 2024): 29  
Gonesh Extra Rich Black Cherry (P - Nov 2024): 29 
Heera Sai Baba Nag Champa Premium Masala Incense (PM - April 2023): 29 
Nandita Dragon Blood (PM - Nov 2024): 29
Temple of Incense Indian Rose (P): 29
Veer Madhur (P): 29 
Radha Madhav Radha Madhav (M - Nov 2021): 29 
Radha Madhav Nag Champa (M - Dec 2022): 29 
Radha Madhav Gopal (M - Aug 2019): 29 
Balaji World Premium Incense Sticks (P): 29↑  
HMS Primo Agarwood / Gaura Absolute Agarwood (M - Feb 2024): 28
HMS Gokula Sandalwood&Vanilla/Primo/Gaura/Dhupa Sandalwood (M - Feb 2024): 28
Elbenzauber Mattipal (Jan 2024): 28
Sagun Sainath Flora Bathi (M - Sept 2021): 28  
Gamta It Smells Like Saffron Rose (PM - May 2024): 28 
Ramakrishna's Mint (PM): 28  
Sree Vani Little Lakxmi (PM - Dec 2024): 28
Mysore Sughandi Gateway of India: (P - Nov 2024): 25↓↓ [Average 28]
Gokula Oud Pure Vietnamese Agarwood Connoisseur (P - Aug 2023): 28 
The Mother's India Fragrances Oudh (Jan 2024): 28 
Ranga Rao Cycle Brand Lia Samtrupti (P): 28 
Shoyeido Daily Incense Haku-un (White Cloud) (D - March 2023): 28  
Medicine Buddha Incense from Bhutan (D - Dec 2024): 28
Meadows (Auroville) Spice (P): 28  
Shroff Paneer (PM - June 2024): 28 
Shroff Amber 707 (M - Jan 2022): 28 
Temple of Incense Rose Absolute (M): 28 
Goloka Blessings Incense Love (Rose) (Nov 2022): 28 
Jaycia Passion Coconut (P - Oct 2024): 28↑ 
BIC Million Dollar Masala Incense Sticks (PM - Feb 2024): 28 
BIC Almíscar (Musk) (P): 28 
Balaji Musk (P): 28 
Balaji Royal Bengal Premium Incense Sticks (P - Nov 2024): 28= Om Sai's Vithoba Flora Sticks (M - March 2024): 27 
HEM Lemongrass (P - May 2024): 27 
HEM Strawberry (P - Feb 2015): 30 27* 
Goloka Tree of Life Natural Incense Cones (Jan 2024): 27 Balarama Zam Zam Frankincense (P - Nov 2024): 27
Mahendra Arora  (P - Oct 2024): 23=↓↓ [Average 27]
Shoyeido Magnifiscents Gems/Jewels Sampler (P - Jan 2023): 26 Nippon Kodo Morning Star Mimosa (P - Feb 2023): 26
HMS Primo Incense Nepal Musk (M - July 2017): 26 
HEM Blueberry (P - May 2024): 26  
HEM Lotus Incense Cones (P - Mar 2019*): 26   
Aravinda's Sandal (P): 26 
Aravinda's Parijata (P): 26↓ 
(Lovely Incense) Eyes Of the Lord Buddha Pancha Buddha Incense Sticks (M - Sept 2023): 25 
HEM Red Apple (P - July 2024): 25 
HEM Cannabis Incense Cones (P - Mar 2019*): 25 
HEM Cherry Jasmine (P - May 2024): 25 
HEM Everest (P - May 2024): 25 
New Moon Aromas Sensing Spirit (PM): 25  
Sagun Shiv Flora Bathi (M - Oct 2025): 25↑↓↑ 
Thurga's SunRayn Kalam Incense Sticks (P - Oct 2023): 25 
Satya/Stamford (2014) Laxmi's Lotus (PM): 25 
Satya/Stamford (Mumbai 2014) Enlightenment (Jan 2024): 25 
Satya/Stamford (Mumbai 2014) Intuition (Feb 2024): 25 Prabhuji's Gifts Ajna Chakra Third Eye Jasmine & Tulasi (M): 25 
Phool Luxury Incense Sticks - Tulsi (PM - July 2024): 25 Flourish Fragrance Dhyanam (M - May 2024): 25 
Balarama Wicked Dragon Tea Tree (P - Dec 2025): 25 
Balaji Bindu Premium Incense Sticks (P - Nov 2024): 25↓  
Aromatika Spiritual Love Incense Cones (P - Feb 2021): 25 
Gokula Connoisseur Chocolate & Vanilla / Gaura Chocolate Supreme (M - Nov 2021): 24 
Cottage Industries Heritage No. 11 Mattipal (March 2023): 24 
Cottage Industries Heritage No. 12 Jasmine (October 2023): 24  
Berk Holy Smokes Good Night (Nov 2024): 24 
Radha Madhav Lavender (M - Feb 2024): 24 
Green Tree Angel Dust Incense Cones (Jan 2024): 24
Green Tree Hand of Fatima Premium Masala Sticks (M - Sept 2023): 24
(Auroville) Meadows Natural Incense Mini Fan Pack (P): 24
SifCon Pixies Dance (P - Nov 2024): 24=
Stamford Mythical Range Witches' Curse (P - May 2024): 24↓   
Balaji Holiday Premium Incense Sticks (P - Feb 2024): 24 
Balaji Rose Incense Sticks (P - Mar 2024): 24Forest Fragrance Black Forest Incense Sticks (P): 24  
(Mahendra) Ancient Wisdom Freedom Serenity (P): 24 
Koya's Bajrangi Darshan Premium Incense Sticks (M - Jan 2022): 23 
Fair Trade Nitiraj Premium Frankincense Natural Incense Sticks (M): 23 
BIC Lavender Masala Incense (PM): 23 
HEM Cinnamon Incense Cones (P - Jan 2019*): 23
HEM Protection (P - March 2022*): 23↓   
HEM Meditation (P - Sept 2023*): 23  
HEM Black Opium (P - Nov 2024): 23 
Ekom Patchouli  (Oct 2023): 23
BIC Magic Egipcia (Egyptian Magic) (P): 23  
BIC Strawberry Incense (P - March 2023): 23 
Deepika Dragon Blood Masala Cones (P): 23
Hari Darshan Cool Water Incense Cones (P): 23 
Metro Lavender (P - Feb 2024): 23↑
GR International Rose (P - April 2013): 23 
Phool Luxury Incense Cones Nagchampa (Nov 2013): 23 
(Lovely Incense) Three Lotus / Himalayan Flower White Musk (P - Nov 2024): 23
Pan Aroma Incense Sticks (P - May 2013): 23
Wild Berry Champa Flower cones (P): 23 Mahendra Gulabi Collection Lavender (P): 23
Mahendra Gulabi Collection Rose (P - July 2018): 23
Mahendra Gulabi (P - June 2018): 23↑  
Gonesh Extra Rich Amber (P - Nov 2021): 23  
NYTEC Mausum Meditation Incense Sticks (P): 23 
Pal-Ji Honey Suckle (P): 23↑ 
Balaji Golden Flora Natural Incense Sticks (M): 22 
Balaji Chandan Incense Sticks (P): 23 
Shoyeido Daigen-Koh (Great Origin) (D - Jan 2022): 22↑ 
Aromatika Ace Scents Nag Champa (PW - Dec 2024): 22↑  
Yujing Mou Dan (Peony Fragrance) Joss Sticks (P - Nov 2024): 22
Amrutha Shahi Gulab (P - Feb 2024): 22↓  
HEM Coconut Mango (P - Dec 2024): 22
HEM Love (P - May 2024): 22 
HEM Coconut Incense Cones (P - Mar 2019* ): 22↑ 
HEM Gold Rain (P - May 2024): 22 
HEM Precious Rose (P - Nov 2024): 22 
Cottage Industries Call of Krishna (March 2023): 22
Stamford Mythical Range Goblin's Lair (P - May 2024): 21↓↓ 
Haria Jasmine Premium Dhoop Sticks (D): 21 
ITC Mangaldeep (CRS Agarbathies) Treya Power of 3-in-1 (P): 21 
Tulasi Coffee (P): 21↓↑ 
Fumino Coco Cinnamon (PM - April 2024): 20 
Phool Luxury Incense Cones Indian Rose (Sept 2013): 20 
Matchless Gifts Escential Essences Paris Cafe (P - May 2024): 20
Sree Vani Sri Akhand Jaap Flexo Bathi (M - Oct 2021): 20↑ 
Cottage Industries Sandhya Pooja (P): 20 Nippon Kudo Naturense Calm Night (P - Oct 2024): 20 
Tulasi Lotus (P): 20
Tulasi Cannabis (P): 20 
Tulasi Night Queen (P - April 2019): 20↓↑* 
Indian's Sandal (P):20↓
Flourish Fragrance Jasmine (P - May 2024): 20
Flourish Fragrance Violet (P - Sept 2021): 20 
Jaycia Passion Musk (P): 20
HEM Morning Mist Incense Sticks (P - May 2024): 20 
HEM Precious Rose Incense Cones (P - Feb 2019*): 20 
HEM Tangerine Incense Cones (P - Jan 2019*): 20 
Hem White Musk Incense Sticks (P Feb 2024): 20= 
HEM White Musk cones (P - May 2018*): 20   
HEM Precious Lily (P - Feb 2015*): 20 
Tulasi White Rose Floral Incense Sticks (P - Jan 2024): 20 
Aanchal Agarbatti (Dasgupta / Emporium) 3 in 1 (P): 20



Toilet Cleaners (Under 20)

Not an incense to burn in the house. 
Just use in the bathroom or outside or throw away.


SAC Archangel Uriel Canelo (Cinnamon - 7 Arcangels) (P): 19↓ 
Berk Holy Smokes Swiss Stone Pine (M - Oct 2023): 19 
Ranga Rao Cycle Brand Lia Applee (P - May 2024): 19↓
The Great Indian Caravan Namaste Neroli & Basil Cones (P): 19 
Jaycia Passion Opium (P - Sept 2023): 19↓ 
Ranga Rao Flute Magic Yoga Incense Cones (Jan 2024): 19 
BIC Lemon Incense (P - Nov 2023): 18  
HEM Lemon (P - May 2024): 18 
HEM Gold Silver (P - June 2024): 18 ITC Mangaldeep (Krishna Impex) Mogra (P): 18 
Blue Pearl Sandalwood (P): 18↓ 
Patanjali Aastha Agarbatti Rose (P): 17 
Milo's Temple Coconut (M - Feb 2024): 17 
Aravinda's Rose (P - Mar 2024): 17↓ 
Pocket Incense - 12 Incense Sticks With Holder (PD): 17 
Tulasi Turmeric (P): 16  
Phool Patchouli Luxury Incense Sticks (Nov 2023): 15
Hari Dashan Citronella Anti-Mosquito Incense Cones (P - May 2023): 15 
Just Aromatherapy Premium Cones Apple & Cinnamon (P): 13
Quiran Om Ylang Ylang (P): 12↓ 
Tulasi Citronella Incense Cones (P - Oct 2023): 11 
Ancient Wisdom Dragon's Blood cones (P): 9
Joie Lily (P): 9
HEM White Sage (P - March 2013*): 9
FlyAway Citronella Incense Coil (P - March 2017): 8
HEM Precious Musk (P - Feb 2013*): 8 
Dhenum Cow Dung Cakes (July 2024): 2 


Spiritual/Ritual Incense


Pure resins,  or woods and blends that are mainly used for spiritual or ritual reasons rather than just the aroma

Decent Stuff (39-30)
Everyday Incense (29-20)
Just for ritual purposes



I shall be putting in the Vintage section those incenses which are either no longer available under their previous brand name, or which appear to have changed character over the years.  

The Vintage Incense page  will no longer be updated - see here for an up to date listing. 



Sept 2023 - Score: 49


Aargee Imperial 
Kashmir Sandal Fragrance (M)
 Discontinued
Dec 2023 -  Score: 48↓↑


Discontinued
Oct 2023 - Score: 48↑↑


Aargee Joss Styx Chakra
Manipura Solar Plexis
Discontinued
Dec 2023 - Score: 47





Aargee Imperial Maharaja
Patchouli Fragrance (M)
Discontinued
Dec 2023 (in) - Score: 47 



Absolute Bliss
Bengali Jungle Fluxo Durbar (M) 
Oct 2021 - Score: 46

 

Stamford Chakra
Anahata Heart (M)
Discontinued
Score: 45↑


Aargee Imperial
Kashmir Sandal Fragrance (M)
July 2018 - Score: 45↓


Stamford Joss Styx Chakra Ajna (Third Eye) (M - Nov 2023) Discontinued: 45=↑ 
Stamford Joss Styx Chakra Anahata Heart (M) - Feb 2023 Discontinued:  Score: 45↑ 
Absolute Bliss Exotic Jasmine Sept 2023 - Score: 40 
Aargee Imperial Maharani Heena Fragrance Discontinued (M - Dec 2023): 41= 
Aargee Imperial Bharat Mata Bouquet Fragrance Discontinued (M - March 2017): 40↑*  
Aargee Krishna Leela Agarbathi Discontinued (M): 39   
Aargee Laxmi Pooja Discontinued (M): 38* 
Yadalam Vaastu Champa Thick Dhoop 2 (D - Nov 2018): 37↑ (out of business)
Yadalam Vaastu Rose Thick Dhoop (D - Oct 2018): 37 (out of business) 
Unbranded Agarwood (P): 37  
Balarama Mystic Incense Pink Sugar (P - Jan 2015): 35* Brand discontinued
Pavitra Natural Incense Ancient Musk (M - April 2018): 30↑
Aargee Imperial Raja Rani Lavender Discontinued (M): 30↑↓ 
Balarama Mystic Incense Baby Powder (P - Sept 2013): 30 (brand discontinued)
Tree of Life - Shalimar (P): 28↑↓ Discontinued 
Yadalam Vaastu Camphor Thick Dhoop (D - Nov 2018): 26 (out of business) 
Yadalam Vaastu Lavender Thick Dhoop (D - Nov 2018): 25↓ (out of business) 
Emporium Christmas Time incense (P - Aug 2013): 25 (out of business) 
Emporium Impressions Gift Pack: (P - May 2015): 25 (out of business)
Emporium Dream Catcher Magnolia (P - April 2015): 25 (out of business)
Yadalam Vaastu Gugal Thick Dhoop (D - Nov 2018): 20 (out of business) 
Emporium Dream Catcher Cannabis (P - April 2015): 20 (out of business) 
Emporium Time & Again Scorpio Ocean Dreams  (P - Feb 2017): 20 (out of business)
Aargee Jasmine (tube series) -  Discontinued (P): 20*
Tree of Life Jasmine (P): 20↓ Discontinued
Tree of Life Opium (P - Oct 2023): 20= Discontinued
Tree of Life Cannabis (P): 20↓ Discontinued 
Emporium Mystic Scents Lemon (P - June 2018): 19 (out of business)
Emporium Mystic Scents Frank Incense (P - May 2019): 19 (out of business)
Emporium Mystic Scents White Musk (P - May 2019): 19 (out of business)  
Emporium Dream Catcher Frankincense (P - March 2015): 9 (out of business) 


***
The Best Incense Makers

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17 comments:

  1. jmk6 May 2017 at 13:16

    Oh dear God. I don't think I should have found your blog. Despite the lifetime+ supply of incense I already have, I feel I'm about to become obsessed with trying all, ALL, your recommendations. Pray for me.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Steve Pereira6 May 2017 at 13:46

      There is so much incense out there, and I keep discovering new areas. I've only recently got into Egyptian and Persian incense, and I'm amazed by this new world. I've not yet got around to reviewing it - I've got such a back log!

      Delete
  2. Anonymous25 March 2018 at 12:15

    Please check out koyas incense and share your review.i guess they can provide you the samples.. they have the best masala incense in the industry..

    www.koyasincense.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Steve Pereira18 November 2022 at 01:53

      I'm glad you turned me on to Koya's Incense. They really are one of THE great incense producers.

      Delete
  3. Steve Pereira26 March 2018 at 02:27

    Thanks for the info. I will look into them, but unfortunately not for some time. I have a large backlog of incense samples to get through, and my priority is to deal with what I already have before taking on any more samples.

    I have been somewhat distracted by other projects (including some building work on our house), but will get back to reviewing shortly.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Jack Harry29 December 2020 at 07:41

    Backflow trees incense Burner in usa

    ReplyDelete
  5. Ho Go21 July 2021 at 03:16

    Surely, Steve, there are better stick out there than Satya Sai Baba Nag Champa. Many say they were better when they were using halmaddi in them, but the present incarnation does not contain it. Don't get me wrong, I like these sticks and burn them on occasion, but there are better Nag Champas out there. Much better!

    ReplyDelete
  6. Steve Pereira10 August 2021 at 02:48

    I agree there are fragrances that sometimes appeal more, but there is much to a scent. There are emotions and memories and associations and imagery. This is true not just of scents, but of many things in life. Why do we love one person, but not another? Do we measure that person up to professional models or Olympic athletes and then find them wanting, and so less them the less?

    People burn incense for many reasons. Some people here in the West get wrapped up in the imagery of incense and become almost competitive in the quest to burn the most exclusive and highly regarded incense. People fall over themselves for thin dhoops from Japan - they regard the high prices as signs of quality rather than as signs of marketing. And the high prices reassure them that they are buying the best. This sort of marketing goes on in every field, and there are those who are not happy unless they are paying high prices. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a lower price, but still want quality. In the beer market cask beer sells for less than kegged "craft" beer, even though the kegged beer is more economical for the bar owner. The hipster who likes the imagery associated with kegged craft beer, is reassured by the higher price. The old crusty who likes the imagery associated with cask beer likes the plain honesty of a fair price. Naturally, most bar owners are happier selling the kegged beer as it is more stable, more economical, and they can charge a higher price. More and more brewers are turning to marketing their beer as craft rather than cask. As a result, the old crusty will find one day that very few bars are selling cask because they have mostly gone over to craft.

    I don't think we are there yet with incense, but increasingly I am seeing incense being marketed expensively. It seems it matters not who makes the incense and how, it only matters to some in how the incense is marketed, and how people talk about it.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Steve Pereira10 August 2021 at 02:48

    I have Satya Nag Champa as my Number One because, as I say in my review, it was the incense that started my current interest in exploring incense from around the world. It reminded me of the incense I burned when I was a young hippy. And it awakened me. I still go to it now and again, and I still enjoy it. Sometimes more than others. Quality control has wavered over the years, and some batches are better than others. It has an association and an emotional vibrancy that adds value to the experience. Such associations, as I say, are personal and individual. My love for Satya Nag Champa is personal, and I am sharing that with others. But this is not, for me, a competition. I am not an incense judge. I make clear in my ramblings that I am exploring and learning about incense. This is a personal journey I am sharing with others. I gather knowledge and experience, yes, but not in way to pass pronouncements. I share my learnings as I share my personal experiences. And I pass on what I feel is useful.

    So, yes, I still feel, for many reasons, that Satya Nag Champa is my favourite, number one, incense.

    As regards halmaddi. I feel there is a little too much focus on that resin in the West. There are rather more pleasing tree resins. But, each to their own. I prefer frankincense, amber, myrrh, etc. I am particularly interested in the moment in benzoin/loban/sambrini - especially these sambrini cups that are all the rage in India. Some are a little crude and smoky for me, but get the balance right, and they can be delightful. Halmaddi, for me, can be attractive, but mostly I just get a negative physical reaction from it - it stings my eyes and throat. I prefer incense aimed at the domestic Indian market which doesn't contain halmaddi, than those created for the West with halmaddi, such as The Mother's India Fragrances. However, what I do find is that The Mother's are great, not burned, but used as drawer liners, or left unburned in a bowl to fragrance a room. They do last a long time and the scent works - for me - better unburned. Burning seems to active the worse aspects of halmaddi for me.

    ReplyDelete
  8. aavyaa -India's biggest marketplace18 October 2023 at 03:38

    Hi Steve,
    I am amazed to see the number of incenses you have burned, tested and reviewed. Your recommendations are highly valuable. looking forward to your often suggestions on the incenses we sell, and incenses that we "SHOULD SELL" 😊😊

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Steve Pereira18 October 2023 at 07:08

      Shroff is highly respected in the West. Koya's top end stuff is really special. Meena Perfumery (makers of Meena Supreme) - though it's unsure if they are still in business. Haridas Madhavdas Sugandhi of Pune are highly respected here. There are others, but having those on your list will certainly generate interest. Oh, and Ramakrishna's Incense. Tourists are buying them at Mapusa Municipal Market, and then enthusing about them when they get home. That has generated a lot of interest.

      Delete
    2. aavyaa -India's biggest marketplace19 October 2023 at 01:20

      Thanks a lot for your suggestions. We will surely work on your suggestions 😊😊

      Delete
  9. Kevin Smith12 December 2023 at 03:56

    This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Anonymous11 September 2024 at 14:38

    This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Alok7 December 2024 at 09:19

    Hi Steve, I am amazed! I have a huge respect for your passion as a reviewer. I am curious about what the room where you lit incenses in these many years would smell like now!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Steve Pereira7 December 2024 at 10:27

      Friends and visitors always remark on how nice our house smells. We burn incense all over the house.

      Delete

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