by Serge Lutens
Un Bois Vanille by Serge Lutens is a refined, nuanced vanilla fragrance that blends sweet vanilla with earthy woody notes, creating a warm, intimate scent that feels both cozy and sophisticated. It opens with an intense interplay of beeswax, licorice, and coconut milk, which gives it a soft, gourmand quality without veering into cloying sweetness. Over time, the fragrance evolves into a deeply textured composition where the vanilla mellows into a dry, smoky, and slightly caramelized base, accented by sandalwood, tonka bean, and subtle hints of bitter almond. The overall effect is elegant and mature, with a quiet, intimate sillage that leans close to the skin—more like a personal aura than a loud projection. While some find the opening notes overwhelming or synthetic, many describe it as complex, comforting, and deeply atmospheric, likening it to a cozy winter night by a fire, infused with smokiness and warm vanilla. It is particularly cherished in colder seasons, where its warmth and depth shine, and it pairs well as a layering scent or for quiet, intimate moments. The composition stands out for its balance between sweetness and dryness, making it feel more like an artistic interpretation of vanilla than a typical gourmand.