Our take
What does Bois Mystérieux smell like?
Bois Mystérieux is part of Les Absolus d'Orient, the Guerlain line that started in 2014 with Santal Royal. Thierry Wasser composes the collection, and retailers date this leather to 2019. The top is unexpected. Neroli and bay leaf open on an aromatic freshness that feels almost Mediterranean. It does not last. Atlas cedar settles in with earthy patchouli. Saffron adds a metallic, leathery tone that Wasser developed for the collection. A quiet jasmine softens the transition. The base is properly black. A dense leather accord mixes with myrrh and leaves a trail of burnt resin on skin. Chanel's Cuir de Russie comes to mind as a perfumed leather. Bois Mystérieux is more resinous and far less powdery. It sits closer to the Gulf style of oriental woods, the market this collection targets. The name promises mystery and the perfume delivers, without much nuance.
When to wear it
Two sprays at most, ideally on a coat or scarf rather than bare skin. It is a winter night perfume that suffocates an office.
It belongs to the Woody, Leather family. Bois Mystérieux is one of 89 creations by Guerlain in our encyclopedia.
