This is part of Jahgirdar's Flora collection. Samples, in off-putting glossy sleeves, sent to me by Julian of The Incense Atelier who is considering importing them. I think he is somewhat put off by the naff name, First Choice, the glossy commercial sample sleeves, extruded manufacture, and the sight of black smoke when first lit (this happens when there is incomplete combustion, which can be caused by DEP, though often happens with oil rich incenses such as flora/fluxo styles) and I understand that. But get beyond the name, and into the rich incense, and Jahagirdar's Indian-Arabian incense is very rewarding for those who like layered, complex, oily, dark, sexy, smoky-sweet fragrances.
Nargis (also called narcissus) is the South Asian name for the daffodil. It has a scent similar to jasmine, though more rich and creamy, and blends well with pale, creamy sandalwood. The fragrance on the stick is very milky and honeyed and delicious. Beautiful. Jahagirdar say: "Nargis Handmade Incense Sticks are crafted from narcissus flowers, jasmine blossoms, sandalwood, frankincense, and benzoin resin. Their calming floral-woody profile is known to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and help build a sacred atmosphere." And it is possible, even at £1.25 for 100g, that there is some tiny element of daffodil and jasmine in the mix, but it more likely that the floral notes are delivered by mostly natural aroma compounds such as phenylacetaldehyde, benzyl-acetate, cis-3-hexenol, and linalool (there's a soapy note in the accord), as well as the sandalwood, frankincense, and benzoin. The sandalwood notes are very clean, so are possibly helped by javanol. This is an example of the perfumer's art. This is not a cheap, crude fragrance accord - this is layered, subtle, delicate, intense, and shimmeringly beautiful. The sort of thing made by a family who have spent seven generations making attars and incense. It is a shame that the name and presentation divert attention away from the true beauty of this incense house.
The scent on the burn is soft, rich, creamy; floral - like jasmine, but thicker, softer, and more honeyed, with delicate benzoin/vanilla notes. Well supported by the creamy pale sandalwood. Jasmine incense is not one of my favourites. Indeed, florals on the whole are not my thing, so this is not going to get a huge score from me. But it is one of the most attractive and beautiful jasmine style incenses I've encountered. Wonderful.
Currently (as of April 2026) only available in India. ₹160 for 100g, direct from Jahagirdar.
Date: Apr 2026 Score: 42/50
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