Liam Grey

To Buy or Not to Buy?

Liam Grey offers a compelling alternative to the pricier Gris Charnel Extrait. While not a perfect match – particularly in the opening where the synthetic edges are noticeable – it captures the essence of the original's sandalwood and fig accord. If you appreciate the DNA and seek an affordable option, Liam Grey is a worthy contender. However, if you demand the highest quality materials and a more polished presentation, the original remains worth the splurge.

The Scent Profile

Liam Grey attempts to mimic the creamy sandalwood and fig of Gris Charnel Extrait. The opening presents a spicy cardamom and black tea accord, but it leans slightly sharper than the original's smoother introduction. The fig note is present, though somewhat synthetic compared to BDK's naturalistic rendering. In the heart, the iris provides a powdery texture, blended with a woody vetiver that echoes the original's sophisticated core. Cistus Incanus adds an ambery touch, but the overall effect is slightly less refined. The drydown is where the similarity peaks, with a creamy sandalwood supported by vanilla and cedar. It achieves about 95% similarity to Gris Charnel Extrait in this final phase.

Performance Reality Check

Longevity is respectable, hovering around 7-8 hours on skin. Projection is moderate for the first 2 hours, then settles closer to the skin. It projects moderately, but not as much as the original which is known for its sillage.