by Issey Miyake
Nuit d'Issey Bois Arctic is a fresh, woody vanilla fragrance with a green and spicy opening. It begins with bright citrus notes of grapefruit and mandarin orange, layered with pink and black pepper, creating a vibrant and aromatic top. As it develops, basil and geranium lend a herbal green quality, which harmonizes with the underlying tobacco and tonka base. The dry down is sweet and smooth, dominated by vanilla and tobacco with a soft, smoky warmth that lingers on skin. While some users describe it as possessing a subtle icy or cold sensation — evoking snow or a winter forest — the scent itself is more about freshness enhanced by warmth than an icy, arctic chill. Performance is moderate to long, with good sillage and significant projection in the first few hours, especially from a few sprays. Its tone is both elegant and masculine-oriented, making it ideal for evening wear during autumn and winter, particularly in cooler climates or when layering. The scent is well-blended and transitions smoothly, avoiding harsh or overwhelming notes.