Black Saffron

Sweet and woody in equal measure, Black Saffron from Byredo (2012) adds spice, a soft floral and a leathery edge to that base; about half of those who describe it mention each of those three. It is worn by anyone.

The opening pairs saffron with Chinese grapefruit and juniper berries: a warm, slightly metallic spice set against a bitter citrus and a gin-like coolness. In the heart, black violet brings a powdery, inky floral while leather adds a smooth, dry warmth. The base settles into vetiver's earthy smokiness, the soft synthetic wood of cashmeran and a touch of raspberry that keeps the drydown gently sweet.

Most people find the longevity moderate, with a minority getting a long wear, and the sillage is moderate too, so it stays fairly close without disappearing. Autumn and winter get the most votes, and it leans towards the night, though a large share wear it in the day as well. A good fit for cool-weather evenings where you want something spiced but not loud.

Black Saffron — unisex fragrance by Byredo (released 2012). Top notes: Saffron, Juniper Berries, Chinese Grapefruit. Heart notes: Leather, Black Violet. Base notes: Raspberry, Cashmeran, Vetiver. — Parfica open fragrance database