Noir de Noir Tom Ford 2007 Eau de Parfum

Looking at the list of notes here, I expected Noir de Noir to be an earthy gem built on moss, oud and patchouli, with some full-bodied rose for balance, and a little saffron adding exotic interest to the top notes. Instead, what I find here is just about the exact opposite of that: a sweet, sheer, unobtrusive floriental built mostly on a natural smelling rose note and some gentle vanilla. Earthy it is not.

Noir de Noir pairs rose and vanilla beautifully, and carries from top to base a hint of ever-so-slightly tart fruit that doesn't seem to be explained by the notes listed here. It is lovely, and is what all smooth and pleasant rose/vanilla collaborations should aspire to. Rochas Tocade *wishes* it were Noir de Noir. :-)

Rose is a note that I seem to enjoy most when it plays a subordinate or supportive role within a bustling ensemble. Chanel No. 19 comes to mind. Which is why I was hoping the patchouli, oud and moss would be louder in Noir de Noir, much, much louder.

For anyone madly in love with la diva Rose, however, I think it's a must-try. It's not your grandma's or your mama's rose perfume. It's young and hip and au courant.