Ciel d'Orage Eau de Parfum

Ciel d'Orage is an opulent and bold oriental-woody fragrance that exudes luxury and confidence. It opens with a striking burst of saffron, immediately setting the tone for a rich and sophisticated experience. This commanding introduction is soon softened by a suede accord, adding a velvety smoothness to balance the intensity. At its core, the stars of the composition—oud, vetiver, and guaiac wood—create a deep, smoky, and slightly earthy character that lingers with remarkable presence. This is not a scent for the fainthearted; it is powerful, dense, and at times unapologetically heavy. While it boasts excellent longevity and projection, its boldness may limit its versatility. For lovers of strong, statement-making oriental fragrances, Ciel d'Orage is a masterpiece of depth and elegance. Rating: 4/5

It's not right for this gem to not have any reviews so I'll do my best. To start with, it's pretty powerful, so 2 sprays max unless you're that coworker I had once that should've had a biohazard warning. I think she used Extrait de Something Nuclear as bodywash. If she came into the office while I was eating brekkie at my desk there was a severe chunder risk. She turned Chanel No. 5 into mustard gas. So go easy. I put it on one morning and my partner said something about burning tyres but i don't drink Ardbeg in the A.M. The top note reminds me of birch tar (and Ardbeg) but based on the notes listed I am guessing saffron must be the culprit. Bottom line: This potion is unique and powerful but it won't be everyone's kettle of fish so start first with a sample. I love it.

Quick review: imagine Quorum minus most of the soap and instead with enhanced pine, more leather, and a smoky yet velvety oud. Still has the florals (here a smooth violet rose, lots of ionone listed in the ingredients) though thankfully skips the stamp of all old-school fougeres - that dang carnation. Still has tobacco and hints of honey buried in a smoky guaiac oud. It really feels like an old school fougere but refracted through a modern lens. More elegant and forceful than Quorum, darker and more moody than Polo Green, but in the vein of both, carrying the same weight and unrestrained masculinity of both. Great stuff, I had to get a bottle.

Actually this is closest to vintage Salvador Dali Homme. Yes, the one in the black lips bottle. This has less anise and more smoky woodiness, but the overall vibe are quite similar. Great stuff as is the Dali.

Yatagan wanders out of the arid scrublands and into a mystical forest shrouded in fog