Noir Exquis L'Artisan Parfumeur 2015

... but with just as much wood, more nuts, a bit of fruit, and a few flowers, this scent evokes the same indescribably cozy feeling of security in me.

Noir Exquis is definitely not a classic creamy-sticky gourmand, but a warm-spicy-woody and naturally sweetened soul-soother.

Immediately after spraying, a strong, nutty chestnut aroma unfolds, which, thanks to the subtle, sweet-sparkling orange, never feels dull or earthy.
As if I were walking through a Christmas market in an upscale neighborhood, where perfectly roasted chestnuts and homemade orange punch are offered at its exquisite stalls.
A small but fine spectacle, the end of which I reach just at the moment when I have savored this delicious, yet intense olfactory delight to my heart's content.

The café before me is dimly lit by candles, and a few muffled voices drift through the historic masonry out into the cool night.
Upon entering, my gaze immediately falls on the carefully arranged orange blossom branches that adorn the few tables. Contrary to expectations, they do not exude an opulent, heavy scent, but rather spread a soft-floral and gently calming aura. Added to this is a bitter freshness, which likely comes from the coffee beans and creates a pleasant balance to the powerful opening.

I sit down and, fascinated, run my finger over the numerous cracks that run through the massive, dark tabletop. Undoubtedly, the cozy warmth of the iron stove has caused the wood to become dry and brittle over time.
Gradually relaxing, I close my eyes and feel how the sweet, spicy aroma of vanilla and tonka bean, drifting over from the neighboring tables and laying itself like a delicate tablecloth on the old wood, slowly brings a satisfied smile to my lips.