Our take
What does Alien Essence Absolue smell like?
Dominique Ropion, who created the original Alien, also composed Essence Absolue for Thierry Mugler in 2012. It is an intense Eau de Parfum sold in refillable bottles. The starting point is still Alien's sambac jasmine. Here it feels less sunny and far less overwhelming. Heliotrope adds an airy, almost almond softness, and iris brings a powdery texture. The heart drifts toward resin. Myrrh gives a warm incense feel, while cashmeran lays down a muffled wood that smells a bit like wool. The base is the most convincing part. The white amber of the Alien family meets a dry vanilla that is more woody than sugary. You recognise the line's signature without the sheer power that drives some people away. It projects less than the original and stays closer to the skin. It is probably discontinued, though Mugler has not confirmed it.
When to wear it
Autumn and winter evenings or a dressy occasion. Two sprays and no more.
It belongs to the Oriental / Amber, Woody family. Alien Essence Absolue is one of 28 creations by Mugler in our encyclopedia.
