Question 1

What's the difference between Zen Gold Elixir and Coco Noir?

Accepted Answer

Zen Gold Elixir is a feminine fragrance (marketed to women, though wearable by all) from Shiseido (2013) dominated by Patchouli accords. Coco Noir is a feminine fragrance (marketed to women, though wearable by all) from Chanel (2012) leaning on Warm Spicy accords. They share 5 accords: Patchouli, Woody, Citrus, Warm Spicy.

Question 2

Which is better, Zen Gold Elixir or Coco Noir?

Accepted Answer

By community rating, Zen Gold Elixir scores 4.17/5 vs Coco Noir at 4.13/5. Coco Noir's standout strength: Beautiful, mysterious scent with depth and elegance. The "better" choice depends on what you value — longevity, projection, season fit, or signature character.

Question 3

Do Zen Gold Elixir and Coco Noir smell similar?

Accepted Answer

They share 8 notes and 5 accords, including Patchouli, Woody, Citrus, Warm Spicy, Amber. Coco Noir: The r/fragrance community loves Coco Noir's beautiful, mysterious scent profile and versatility, but is significantly disappointed by its weak longevity that falls short of Chanel's reputation.

Question 4

Which lasts longer, Zen Gold Elixir or Coco Noir?

Accepted Answer

Coco Noir: Poor longevity - lasts only 2-3 hours on skin Longevity varies by skin chemistry, concentration, and application method.

Question 5

Which season suits Zen Gold Elixir vs Coco Noir?

Accepted Answer

Zen Gold Elixir scores highest for fall wear; Coco Noir scores highest for fall wear. Zen Gold Elixir leans daytime, Coco Noir leans evening.

Zen Gold Elixir vs Coco Noir

Comparison Summary

Shared Notes (8)

Unique to Zen Gold Elixir (4)

Unique to Coco Noir (8)

Shared Accords (5)

Frequently asked questions

Community Sentiment Pulse — Coco Noir

Positive

Negative

Attribute	Zen Gold Elixir	Coco Noir
Brand	Shiseido	Chanel
Year	2013	2012
Rating	4.17	4.13
Concentration	Elixir	—
Gender	feminine	feminine
Total Notes	12	16