Civet de Nuit

Civet de Nuit by Areej Le Dore in collaboration with Sultan Pasha is a deeply layered, nocturnal fragrance that unfolds like an olfactory memory of classical French perfumery. The opening features a soft helium triumph of heliotrope and aldehydes, balanced by a faintly airy sparkle that quickly gives way to a core of night blooming jasmine and ylang-ylang, blended with a powdery, velvety floral accord. The heart is where the signature animalic civet emerges—not pungent or aggressive, but thick, buttery, and resinously embedded, wrapping the flowers in a mysterious, warm aura. As it dries down, notes of sandalwood, castoreum, and a soft green musk take hold, with ambergris and benzoin lending a honeyed radiance and incense-like depth. The overall impression is one of refined darkness: no overt sweetness or flourishes, but a resolute, noble elegance that lingers with quiet intensity. The sillage is moderate to strong, fitting for evening wear, and longevity is long, often lasting over six hours across skin types. The perfume’s strength lies in its impeccable balance—not a chaotic beast, but a polished masterpiece of olfactory engineering. Its blend of animalic civet, soft benzoic resins, green moss, and warm musk creates a deeply immersive, personal experience that many describe as hypnotic or emotionally transporting. It appeals to those who seek depth over novelty, especially those with romantic or nostalgic associations to vintage European perfumery. The collaboration brings together Russian Adam’s delicate, powdery florals and Sultan Pasha’s warm, animalic foundation, resulting in a rich, textured experience that some liken to impossible classics like Bal al Versailles or Amouage Gold. Despite its strong performance, Civet de Nuit has a divisive quality. The civet’s core, while smoothed and softened, remains an animalic presence that may clash with those sensitive to real-fur or musky-sweet sensations. Some users find it linear and overly sweet, especially in the early phases—though others report that their noses adapt over time to reveal deeper complexity. It lacks a momentary triumph or dramatic shift, making it more suited to those who appreciate slow unfolding than flashy effects. Overall, it is not a crowd-pleasing scent, but one meant for the discerning and emotionally attuned nose.