L'extreme is an evolution from Encre Noire, respectably retaining its core yet refining the accord with a mystique and fluidity of its own… A work of art that truly deepens the original mystery.

The presence of Orris provides a powdery characteristic, finishing off with sandalwood and patchouli. The vetiver base is clearly perceptible and I am a fan of this grass because it is inherently very complex: tart, sweet, green, hot, earthy. I have not tried the original Encre Noir nor the Encre Noir Sport flanker, however I believe others when they say that this is the most “wearable” of the lot. I don't know why it's rated to be geared towards the evening so heavily over the day, I find it so rejuvenating spraying this on to get the day started with some outdoorsy activity.At the time I assumed that she had some beguiling natural scent to her, perhaps her genetics, or her diet, or her skin's microbiome. Picking up the smell in the air reminds me of Chanel's Sycomore which is crazy considering how cheap this bottle is! Vetiver and cypress combine to make this a great office/everyday scent and, other than in very hot weather (I'm a Brit so that means anything over 20°c), it's wearable all year round. Yes, the vetiver is there without a doubt, but the incense overpowers it in my opinion, especially in the opening and in the first hour or so.

I don't think the original is difficult to wear, but it feels more simplistic and linear with its musky vetiver note. One of those things you'd gift your male partner, but end up getting greedy and stealing back for yourself, haha! Then, when it begins to develop, the hard core of Encre Noir begins to surface with its cypress, vetiver and cashmir core. I’m always reticent if something is targeted at men because the traditional masculine style isn’t my style The good thing about niche/indie and even the boutique collections of the big brands, is that they are not divided by gender.

I spray myself and leave for work, by the time I get there (30mins) smell is non existent on clothes and body.

Not great projection although with enough sprays in stays on the skin But, when I spray Hermes intense Vetiver on top of this this OMG … they work amazing together; sillage and projection are immense …. The very best piece of wood in my collection, - so noble, so elegant and beautiful, this fragrance is a masterpiece. After dry-down, the bergamot and vetiver are equally present because the grassy vetiver opening softens. Many esteemed noses praise it and I will try some more but I think it'll make a nice gift for a friend ultimately. All this said, the oud note is going to make this very polarizing for some, especially in North America.Longevity isn’t an important criterion for me, as I keep a bottle in my office at work and can reapply as needed. That is the dominant note for a good 30 minutes before the rest of the notes really can be appreciated. These frags from Lalique are a great way to get into more challenging niche scents and mature that nose without breaking the bank.