Oud Éclat Miller Harris 2021

The opening is medicinal, almost like minty throat pastilles. It’s not unpleasant, just noticeably there. Despite the name, oud barely registers, which actually works in this scent’s favor. The heart is where it gets interesting: a clear, spicy nutmeg note takes over. Nutmeg isn’t a spice I reach for in cooking, but here I find myself genuinely enjoying it. Balsam fir lingers alongside it, adding a pleasant, resinous touch. Overall the fragrance feels unisex and easy to wear. I don’t think I’d commit to a full bottle, but I’ll hold onto the sample for a cold, rainy fall evening — it seems like the right mood for it.

The similarity to Baccarat Rouge is quite undeniable... but only for a short while. I find that the "woody and mossy" notes are more pronounced and remain true to this overall very beautiful scent. Oud is only very transparently perceivable here, which I don't mind at all. When I perceive floral nuances, they are slightly bitter; there is definitely nothing sweet on stage here. The whole fragrance has something pleasantly masculine for me, which suits us women quite well too. The scent reminds me a bit of dark herbs; there is a nice fir liqueur...
What remains is a soft and warm base that does not clash but can stay like a good friend. For me, it's a unisex fragrance with a focus more on the masculine side. The black bottle looks elegant, and the longevity is decent at about 6-7 hours, but it stays close to the skin. This fragrance reminds me of scents I already know; not very extravagant but very pleasant and often suitable.

The opening of Miller Harris' Oud Eclat is finely floral with a subtle Oud note. I would have liked a bit more punch here, but the fragrance is overall very restrained. It also suits women better who do not want to apply too heavily. In my opinion, the scent is not quite suitable for men, as it comes off too floral. It smells like good floral soap of the better kind. I do not perceive the leather in the base, but I do notice the well-executed moss. Overall, a decent room fragrance, but nothing more. A bit disappointing.