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Opium Eau de Toilette 2009
by Yves Saint Laurent
Opium Eau de Toilette 2009 is a bold, warm, and deeply aromatic oriental fragrance with a complex evolution that unfolds slowly over time. It opens with a bright citrus and aromatic top—bergamot, tangerine, and lily-of-the-valley—giving a sharp, effervescent burst that fades quickly into a spiciness led by carnation and myrrh. The heart reveals a rich interplay between floral and aromatic accords, with jasmine and a dry clove-like spice, before settling into a warm, slightly soapy base of amber, patchouli, vanilla, and balsamic notes. The scent transitions from a striking, piercing spiciness to a deeply comforting, sensual warmth, with an elegant balance between sharpness and sweetness. It has moderate to strong sillage and very long-lasting performance, clearly living up to its reputation for endurance, especially for an EDT. Many users find it timeless and deeply personal, evoking nostalgia, church incense, or memories of the 1980s and 1990s, and appreciate its unisex nature, though some detect a medicinal or soapy quality. Its depth and quiet power make it ideal for evening wear and fall/winter months.
Pros
- +The fragrance has outstanding longevity and performance for an EDT, with a slow, evolving dry down that lingers for hours.
- +The scent combines dark, spicy myrrh with bright citrus and floral notes, creating a striking contrast between light and dark that many find timeless and introspective.
- +It is largely unisex and suits those who appreciate rich, woody-oriental fragrances with a vintage sensibility, particularly in cooler seasons.
Cons
- −The initial soapy or medicinal note—likely from the myrrh—is noticeable and off-putting to some, especially on sensitive skin.
- −The scent lacks the explosive power and modern-oriental intensity of the original 1977 version, leading some to feel it’s underwhelming compared to vintage expectations.
- −The sillage is strong but fades quickly if overdosed, and the scent can feel too linear or unchanging for some users despite its depth.