Hermès Eau des Merveilles Eau de Toilette (released in 2004) is a unique and captivating fragrance for women. Created by Ralf Schwieger and Nathalie Feisthauer, it is a warm, woody, and slightly citrusy scent that evokes a sense of wonder, mystery, and enchantment. Unlike many conventional fragrances, Eau des Merveilles does not rely on traditional floral or fruity notes but instead blends a sophisticated mix of woody, amber, and slightly salty notes, making it both mysterious and sparkling.
The fragrance captures the magic of the world through its unexpected composition and is designed to represent the idea of discovery and the beauty of the unknown. It feels light and airy, with an underlying complexity that makes it intriguing and elegant.
Hermès Eau des Merveilles EDT Notes Breakdown:
Top Notes:
Orange: The fragrance opens with a fresh, zesty burst of orange, bringing a bright and uplifting citrus note that adds energy and vibrancy to the fragrance.
Lemon: A complementary citrus note, lemon adds a tangy, sharp freshness that heightens the overall citrus impression and balances the sweetness of the orange.
Pepper: A subtle, spicy note that adds a bit of heat and complexity to the opening. The pepper gives the fragrance a slight kick and adds an element of surprise to the bright citrus notes.
Heart Notes:
Amber: The heart of Eau des Merveilles is dominated by amber, which provides a warm, resinous, and slightly powdery character. The amber gives the fragrance a soft, enveloping quality that adds depth and sensuality.
Woody Notes: A blend of woody notes, including cedarwood and oak, contributes an earthy, natural richness to the fragrance. These woody notes form the backbone of the scent, providing balance and grounding the fragrance with warmth.
Iris: A powdery, slightly floral note that adds an elegant, soft aspect to the heart. The iris introduces a subtle, delicate dimension to the fragrance, enhancing its sophistication.
Base Notes:
Musk: A soft and sensual note that adds warmth and depth to the base. Musk gives the fragrance a smooth, lingering quality, enhancing its longevity and leaving a comforting, intimate finish on the skin.
Benzoin: A resinous, slightly sweet note that provides warmth and depth. Benzoin enhances the amber and woody notes, contributing to the fragrance's overall sense of warmth and richness.
Cedarwood: A dry, woody note that strengthens the fragrance's earthy character. Cedarwood adds a slightly smoky, resinous feel to the base, balancing out the warmth of the amber and musk.
Overall Impression:
Hermès Eau des Merveilles Eau de Toilette is an enchanting, woody, and amber fragrance that surprises with its fresh citrus opening and evolves into a warm, resinous, and slightly salty composition. The orange and lemon create a bright, citrusy start that is quickly enriched by the warmth of amber and woody notes in the heart. The base is sensual and smooth, with musk, benzoin, and cedarwood giving the fragrance a lasting warmth and depth.
What makes Eau des Merveilles unique is its ability to balance freshness and warmth while avoiding the overly sweet or floral notes typical of many women’s fragrances. It feels airy and light, with a touch of mystery and elegance, making it versatile for both day and evening wear. The fragrance is perfect for women who appreciate more unusual, sophisticated scents with woody, resinous, and amber-rich characteristics.
Eau des Merveilles is ideal for those who want a fragrance that feels fresh but with a deeper, more complex character. Its ability to evoke wonder and the sense of discovery is part of its charm, and it works beautifully year-round, particularly in spring and fall, when its warm and woody elements can be appreciated the most.
