Harmattan

Harmattan, released by the Irish house Roads in 2014, takes its name from the dry, dusty wind that blows across West Africa, and the scent follows that idea with spice, resin and dry woods. Woody is the word everyone uses for it, three quarters also find it spicy and floral, and a quarter pick up resinous, aromatic or ambery facets.

Black pepper and saffron set a hot, dry tone from the start, with lavender adding a herbal, slightly cool counterpoint. The floral heart is substantial: rose, tuberose and ylang-ylang together give a rich, slightly heady sweetness. Underneath, oud brings a dark, smoky woodiness, incense and myrrh a dry, church-like resin, and sandalwood, patchouli and vetiver a smooth, earthy base. Tonka bean adds just enough warmth to round off the edges.

Harmattan is worn by anyone. It is a scent for cooler months and evenings, and for someone who likes spice and smoke with a floral richness behind them.

Harmattan — unisex fragrance by Roads (released 2014). Notes: Agarwood (Oud), Black Pepper, Incense, Lavender, Myrrh, Patchouli, Pepper, Rose, Saffron, Sandalwood, Tonka Bean, Tuberose, Vetiver, Ylang-Ylang. — Parfica open fragrance database