by Heretic Parfums
Dirty Hinoki presents a bright, aromatic, and refreshingly natural interpretation of coniferous forest woods, centered around hinoki and pine with subtle citrus and herbal accents. The fragrance opens with a crisp, lemony-citrus burst layered over thyme and cedar, creating a distinctly clean, dewy, and slightly medicinal freshness. As it develops, the scent evolves into a cool, green, and slightly resinous woody heart, featuring cypress, fir, and elemi with faint suggestive hints of incense and sweetness from olibanum. The base carries a quiet, damp, animalic depth that adds character without overwhelming. It is unobtrusive, intimate, and lacks projection—making it best suited for close encounters and personal moments rather than public wear. The scent lingers faintly but fades quickly, never holding on, and its olfactory character leans heavily toward aromatic greenery, making it difficult to place without frequent sniffs. It is not the type of perfume that announces itself or lasts long—though some find it hard to distinguish beyond the initial burst. Nevertheless, many describe it as uniquely evocative: a quiet walk through a sun-drenched, dewy forest, an intimate woodland memory tied to the skin. Its singular presence sparks emotional responses ranging from hyper-pleasure to disappointment, depending on whether the user finds the dry-down or longevity sufficient. It bears similarity to Encre Noire in its woodiness but feels softer, more vulnerable, and more focused on natural textures—like incense, sap, and wet wood. Layering with CDG Hinoki dramatically enhances its depth and longevity. It is deeply personal and quite divisive. Some experience it as the definitive hinoki scent—clever, natural, and atmospheric—while others find it too faint, weak, or stridently citrus-forward. Its appeal lies in its authenticity, intimacy, and refreshment rather than dominance or impact.