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Poivre 23 London
by Le Labo
Poivre 23 London is a distinctive, unisex fragrance centered around a bold yet fleeting black pepper opening that quickly evolves into a rich, warm, and resinous base dominated by vanilla, labdanum, incense, and guaiac wood. The initial burst of pepper is sharp and spicy, delivering a refreshing jolt that fades within an hour, giving way to a smooth, dense, and slightly sweet aromatic profile. The dry down reveals a luxurious, balsamic, and slightly amber-heavy character with hints of smokiness and tobacco-like warmth, creating an intimate yet lasting presence that lingers well into the evening. Despite some mixed opinions about its performance, the fragrance is consistently praised for its elegance and unique character, particularly in colder months and evening wear. Its sillage is moderate to strong, offering a noticeable trail without overwhelming the environment, and it holds the perfect balance between being comforting and slightly provocative.
Pros
- +The pepper opening, though short-lived, is intense and authentic, delivering a striking initial burst of spice.
- +The dry down is rich, warm, and deeply aromatic, evoking a sense of comfort and elegance.
- +The scent is versatile, suitable for evening wear in colder seasons, and performs well in urban settings.
Cons
- −The pepper fades very quickly, making it feel underutilized despite being central to the name.
- −Longevity and projection are inconsistent across wearers, with some reporting minimal presence after an hour.
- −The high price point leads to widespread perception of overpricing, especially given the availability of similar scents at lower costs.