by Serge Lutens
Chergui is a deeply layered, unisex aroma that evokes a warm, sunbaked desert wind—richly sweet with honeyed tobacco and hay, but grounded in earthy ambers, powdery iris, and smoldering incense. It unfolds slowly, beginning with a bold, almost medicinal sweetness, then matures into a soft, enveloping blend where sweetness feels refined, not cloying. The core notes of honeyed tobacco and dry hay anchor it, creating a balance between indulgence and restraint. Though it can feel initially intense or strange—some describe it as bath gel, baby powder, or even synthetic—it becomes deeply wearable over time, especially in cool weather. Its sillage is moderate: present but not overwhelming. Longevity is excellent, lasting 12+ hours on many skins, providing consistent comfort. Overall, it’s a nuanced, emotionally resonant fragrance that rewards patience and fits anyone open to its unique, balsamic character.