Year: 2007
Notes: thyme, nutmeg, geranium, rose, patchouli, vetiver, cedar, amber, benzoin, tonka bean, vanilla, sandalwood, musk
Ambre 114 is everything that Serge Lutens' Ambre Sultan should have been. They are both somewhat alike but there's a richer amber presence that is both delicious and beguiling. Furthermore, the herbaceous properties of Ambre Sultan are toned down in Ambre 114, making it far easier to wear and enjoy.
The opening notes of thyme and nutmeg in no way challenge one's nose – in fact, the presence of the thyme is more harmonious with the rest of the composition than in Ambre Sultan. Ambre 114 is extremely well-blended, and its sweetness gradually recedes revealing more of a resinous nature, alongside complementary accords of patchouli and vetiver. The base of tonka bean, benzoin, vanilla, sandalwood and musk also reinforces its warm, and yet satisfying, powdery essence during the drydown.
With good longevity and moderate sillage, it's not the most potent amber fragrance available. However, it's such a beautifully crafted scent that this more than compensates for its shortcomings. Where it will mostly appeal to those who don't usually care for amber, it also offers a rich prospect of enjoyment for certified amber lovers.
The opening notes of thyme and nutmeg in no way challenge one's nose – in fact, the presence of the thyme is more harmonious with the rest of the composition than in Ambre Sultan. Ambre 114 is extremely well-blended, and its sweetness gradually recedes revealing more of a resinous nature, alongside complementary accords of patchouli and vetiver. The base of tonka bean, benzoin, vanilla, sandalwood and musk also reinforces its warm, and yet satisfying, powdery essence during the drydown.
With good longevity and moderate sillage, it's not the most potent amber fragrance available. However, it's such a beautifully crafted scent that this more than compensates for its shortcomings. Where it will mostly appeal to those who don't usually care for amber, it also offers a rich prospect of enjoyment for certified amber lovers.
