by Eau D'Italie
Sienne l'Hiver is a deeply atmospheric and introspective fragrance that evokes a cold, melancholic winter day in Siena, Italy. It opens with a fresh, green, and slightly bitter burst of fern, geranium, and violet leaf—reminiscent of damp earth and frosty air—before settling into a complex interplay of dry, herbal, and woody notes. The heart reveals earthy iris, olibanum, and a subtle, savory truffle-like depth, while the base unfolds with guaiac wood, hay, and a faint labdanum amber, lending a smoky, slightly animalic warmth. The fragrance is notably dry, austere, and un-sweet, with a performance that is moderate in sillage and moderate to long in longevity. It lingers close to the skin, evolving into a cool, weathered, almost stone-like drydown with hints of salty, cured olives and slightly musty undertones. While some find it deeply evocative and artistic, many describe it as cold, bicarbonate-scented, or even reminiscent of old books, wet dog, or processed olives. It is best suited for those who appreciate perfumes that function more as olfactory paintings than wearable scents—ideal for introspective moments or winter nights when wearing a jacket in a city street. It feels less like a fragrance and more like an experience.