Rituel À l’Encens Noir

Dark, treacly incense and a camphorous patchouli base recall the impact of Givenchy Gentleman's original formulation. But Rituel À l’Encens Noir is rooted, not in a smart Parisian apartment but in something much more primitive and ecclesial. If Heeley's Cardinal or Sorcinelli's LAVS usher us into the atmosphere of the Roman Baroque, this fragrance transports us to a whitewashed Orthodox church on a remote Greek island, where, for generations, candles glow in the gloomy interior and waves of incense seep from the very walls. Remarkably, after its harsh and medicinal opening, the fragrance softens, (as bitter myrrh defers to sweeter olibanum), and sends forth a spicy, slightly sweet aroma which I find quite intoxicating. It hovers delightfully between patchouli and incense in a long, slow and mellow transcendental dry down. It has been my favourite perfume for some time now.

This has been on my "must buy" list for awhile now... Finally got my bottle & couldn't be happier. Don't be deceived: It's so good you'll be tempted to overspray like crazy at first, but this really, REALLY warms up later in the wear. I'll also say I didn't simply stumble across this as a great scent; This was easily one of the best high-end scents I've come across in recent months focusing on incense, if not #1. If this one doesn't do it for you as far as incense goes... I really don't know what to tell ya! It's fantastic, full bottle & even blind buy-worthy greatness here! I will be getting a backup. Kudos to Jimmy; Truly killing it on multiple fronts!

Jousset deserves recognition for making the best new incense perfume. This is the most realistic myrrh that I have ever smelt from a spray bottle. It is identical to the pungent, smokey-sweet aroma of a sizzling myrrh chip. The patchouli is stronger initially but settles down nicely to leave room for the rich billowing clouds of incense. This gothic perfume evokes haunting images of a midnight mass in a Benedictine abbey. Composition: 10/10 Longevity: 6-8 hours Sillage: 6 feet (powerful) Occasion: winter walk, fireplace, or private library

Hands down the most photo-realistic interpretation of burning frankincense and myrrh I have smelled so far. If you are into incense fragrances do not miss out on this one!

I have a first camphorated whiff of patchouli, then it spreads ecclesiastically between tons of olibanum, a little smoke and myrrh. Lean, durable, with a comfortable sillage, not heavy and pleasant to wear. Obviously... tranquilizer.