Hommage à l'Homme Voyageur Lalique 2014

First of all, the similarity to the in-house competitor "L'Insoumis" is striking, even though the ingredient list differs significantly. Bergamot, moss, and vanilla are present in both, and yet I say: No one needs these two fragrances at the same time, with "Hommage à l'Homme Voyageur" (can the name get any more complicated?) being the stronger, more elegant, and subtler brother for me, especially in the base.

The crazy thing is: I quite like this scent, but I can't quite pinpoint what it is that I like about it. I strongly suspect that some synthetic molecule is playing a role here. Does anyone remember those ice candies that were somewhere between candy and cough drop? That, at least, is my first (perhaps crude) association with both of the mentioned fragrances from Lalique.

The exciting part: I find myself in previously unknown fragrance territory, likely due to an unusual combination of very familiar scent notes. Dusty freshness meets fruity earth - I can't think of anything better! ;-) But it is indeed something completely different at a very acceptable price.

Interestingly, I can understand if someone says "This scent is just not it," because it is indeed so specific. The oud connection in other comments is at least partially understandable to me... However, it is evidently possible to achieve a similar scent impression through other aroma combinations.

But the longer I write, the more I doubt this creation. Silly, right?! So let's agree on a draw! ;-) Not every Lalique fragrance has to appeal to me, just as I don't appeal to the rest of humanity. But with "Encre Noir," they have certainly created a milestone, and that's why I might be biased! ;-)