Niche Black Onyx

The Scent Profile

Niche Black Onyx opens with a blast of star anise that leans almost medicinal, think licorice root tea with a spritz of lemon zest. The rosemary is there, but more of a whisper than a shout. The heart is where things get interesting. A powdery lavender emerges, fighting for dominance with the spicy clove. There's a green, almost soapy quality from the geranium. The base offers a woody anchor: patchouli that's earthy but not overpowering, vetiver with a grassy undertone, and a smooth guaiac wood. While sharing some of the same DNA as its inspiration, the sharp anise feels more synthetic than the original's opening, and the drydown lacks the refined creaminess I was expecting. It's a drier, woodier take.

Conclusion

This fragrance is best suited for cool weather - fall or early spring days. It's a good choice for the office, but go easy on the trigger. The soapy, slightly mature vibe also makes it a good option for a casual evening out, perhaps a low-key dinner. It's a confident, put-together kind of scent.

Projection Power

I consistently get about 6-7 hours of solid longevity with this one. Projection is moderate, extending about an arm's length for the first two hours, then settling closer to the skin. I wore it on a brisk morning walk and found it performed well in the cool air. Indoors, in a warmer office environment, it can become a little cloying if oversprayed.