Hi Henny,
I too have experimented with many. I did have little success with vanilla in the terms of small bucks. Did bring a couple right to ladder to sniff and lick. Never pulled any monsters in. Other scents, tried Mrs. Doe Pea, Tinks, you name it - no results.

The crowd is right - scout, pattern, stand location, scent free and hunt the wind.

I have however been quite successful in generating activity with real antlers - a heavy set of 8 pointers. I used to use lighter 6 pointers and ended up with smaller bucks coming in - they were easier to carry. The horns combined with grunting work well in my arebut have a fairly competitive rut. That is the biggest factor on deer reaction to horns, grunting and snort wheez.

Anyway - give horns a try if you think there is good competition for does. Some big rattling horns might get you a look at another big set!

Good luck.