Our take
What does Encre Noire smell like?
Nathalie Lorson composed Encre Noire for Lalique in 2006. It uses very few materials, and that is its strength. Cypress opens with a resinous, slightly bitter edge. Then comes the real subject: two layered vetivers, one from Bourbon and one from Haiti. The first is smoky and earthy, like a root just pulled from the ground. The second is cleaner, with a hint of grapefruit. Together they smell of a damp cellar, ink and wet wood. The base barely softens the message. Cashmeran gives a felted texture while musk rounds off the corners. Anyone who finds Terre d'Hermès too sunny should try this one first. Twenty years on, Encre Noire is still a reference for dark vetiver. It is also cheap and easy to find.
When to wear it
Autumn and winter, at work or in the evening. Two sprays are enough because vetiver carries.
It belongs to the Woody, Aromatic family. Encre Noire is one of 18 creations by Lalique in our encyclopedia.
